Piece
Unknown Artist
18th–19th century
Medium
Silk
Dimensions
3 x 2 3/4 in. (7.62 x 6.99 cm)
Classification
Textiles-Woven
Culture & Period
Japan · Edo (1615–1868) or Meiji period (1868–1912)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. H. O. Havemeyer, 1896
Accession Number
96.14.700
Art Historical Context
This exquisite silk textile fragment, titled simply *Piece*, hails from Japan during the late Edo period (1615–1868) or early Meiji era (1868–1912 Measuring just 3 x 2¾ inches, it exemplifies the masterful weaving techniques of Japanese artisans, who transformed fine silk threads into intricate fabrics for garments like kimonos and obiashes. Donated to the Metropolitan Museum of Art 1896 by Mr. and Mrs. H. O. Havemeyer, reflects the growing Western fascination with Japanese art during the late 19th century. Woven textiles were a cornerstone of Edo and Meiji craftsmanship, blending functionali...