Kesa
1750/1800, Edo period (1615–1868)
Medium
Silk; plain weave, embroidered with silk and gilt-paper-strip-wrapped silk; silk cords
Dimensions
127.8 × 228.8 cm (50 1/4 × 90 in.)
Classification
textile
Department
Textiles
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
183117
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
This large kesa was made for use by either the Jodo or the Rinzai sect from an elaborately embroidered kosode, or kimono with small sleeves, that was worn off the shoulders and held at the waist by a belt or sash. Together with a sheer white kimono, it was part of the formal summer dress favored by women of the samurai class. The pattern of the kesa fabric consists of the symbols of riches and good fortune, the so-called treasures (takarazukushi). The gold thread was made of gilt-paper strips, b...
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...