Kesa
Early or mid–19th century, Late Edo period (1789–1868)
Medium
Silk, satin damask and plain weaves
Dimensions
113.5 × 213.5 cm (44 5/8 × 84 1/8 in.) Repeat (in heri): 4 × 4 cm (1 5/8 × 1 5/8 in.)
Classification
textile
Department
Textiles
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
183161
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Three sectsShingon, Shin, and Tendaifavored the use of this particular type of kesa. Two or three fabrics were typically employed, none with the colorful patterning that tends to be preferred by collectors. The blue damask fabric used in the borders and column dividers, patterned (in one color) with floral motifs, may be Chinese in origin or it may be of Japanese manufacture made in the Chinese style. The kesa is accompanied by its matching stole, or ohi, which was draped over the wearer's tig...
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...