Untitled

Unknown

18th century · Brocaded plain weave; silk and metallic thread · Asian Art

The lotus is a Buddhist symbol of purity and perfection because it grows out of mud but is not defiled. The pattern of lotus petals on water is found at least as early as the late Heian period and is seen, for example, in the illustrated sutras given by the Heike family to Itsukushima Shrine in 1164. This kesa's corner and central patches are no longer attached, allowing a rare glimpse of the vestment's original bright coloration.

Artist

Unknown

Date

18th century

Medium

Brocaded plain weave; silk and metallic thread

Culture

Japan

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Gift of E. G. Kennedy, 1932