Kesa
Late 19th century, Meiji period (1868–1912)
Medium
Silk; plain weave, embroidered and appliqued with silk and gilt-paper-strip-wrapped silk; silk cord and tassels
Dimensions
117.5 × 221 cm (46 1/4 × 87 in.)
Classification
textile
Department
Textiles
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
5558
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Scattered across the off-white expanse of silk in this kesa are multiple versions of colorful embroidered peacocks, peonies, and scepters, which once served as a symbol of authority in connection with Chinese Buddhism. Much of the embroidery and appliqued gold crosses seams, indicating that the panel was completely assembled before the embroidery work began.
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...