紅縮緬地紅葉軍配団扇模様袈裟|Buddhist Vestment (Kesa) with Maple Leaves and Fans

Unknown

second half of the 18th–first half of the 19th century · Paste-resist dyed silk crepe (chirimen) with shaped-resist dyeing, silk and metallic-thread embroidery · Asian Art

After the death of a woman of high social status, one or more of her treasured garments would often be presented to a temple, where they were made into altar cloths or vestments, like this kesa. Such donations constitute a form of shōgon, which was thought to bestow karmic merit on the donor. Shōgon refers to the gorgeous adornment of Buddhist altars and worship halls where rituals are performed.

Artist

Unknown

Date

second half of the 18th–first half of the 19th century

Medium

Paste-resist dyed silk crepe (chirimen) with shaped-resist dyeing, silk and metallic-thread embroidery

Culture

Japan

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Gift of E. G. Kennedy, 1932