紅地波菊模様唐織|Noh Robe (Karaori) with Chrysanthemums and Waves

Unknown

first half of the 19th century · Twill-weave silk brocaded with silk and metallic thread · Asian Art

Bold, golden waves gleam among large chrysanthemum plants of various types in the decoration of this Noh costume. The combination of water with chrysanthemums is suggestive of a mythical Chinese river that became a prominent theme in Japanese art. Sweetened by dewdrops falling from the petals of the chrysanthemums, the river's water was said to impart eternal life to anyone who drank it. The presence of red in this robe suggests that it was used for the role of a young woman.

Artist

Unknown

Date

first half of the 19th century

Medium

Twill-weave silk brocaded with silk and metallic thread

Culture

Japan

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

The Howard Mansfield Collection, Gift of Howard Mansfield, 1936