Kesa
Early 19th century, Late Edo period (1789–1868)
Medium
Silk and gilt-paper strip; satin weave with secondary binding warps and supplementary patterning wefts; silk cords
Dimensions
193 × 105.4 cm (76 × 41 1/2 in.)
Classification
textile
Department
Textiles
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
11207
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
The principal pattern element in this garment is the maple leaf, shown in clusters of three. Along with the cherry blossom, the maple leaf is the most popular seasonal symbol in Japan. Symbols of fall, the leaves here shimmer with autumnal colors.
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...