Kesa

Textiles

Late 19th century, Meiji period (1868–1912)

Japan

Scattered across the off-white expanse of silk in this kesa are multiple versions of colorful embroidered peacocks, peonies, and scepters, which once served as a symbol of authority in connection with Chinese Buddhism. Much of the embroidery and appliqued gold crosses seams, indicating that the panel was completely assembled before the embroidery work began.

Status: Currently Off View
Department: Textiles

Title: Kesa
Place: Japan (Object made in)
Date Dates are not always precisely known, but the Art Institute strives to present this information as consistently and legibly as possible. Dates may be represented as a range that spans decades, centuries, dynasties, or periods and may include qualifiers such as c. (circa) or BCE.: Made 1875–1900
Medium: Silk; plain weave, embroidered and appliqued with silk and gilt-paper-strip-wrapped silk; silk cord and tassels
Dimensions: 117.5 × 221 cm (46 1/4 × 87 in.)
Credit Line: Gift of Mrs. Robert D. Graff
Reference Number: 1957.156
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