Piece
Unknown Artist
18th–19th century
Medium
Silk
Dimensions
3 1/4 x 6 1/4 in. (8.26 x 15.88 cm)
Classification
Textiles-Woven
Culture
Japan
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. H. O. Havemeyer, 1896
Accession Number
96.14.1076
Art Historical Context
This delicate silk *Piece*, crafted by an unknown Japanese artist in the 18th–19th century, exemplifies refined artistry of Edo-period (1603–1868) and early Meiji-era textiles. Measuring just 3¼ x 6¼ inches, this woven fragment likely served as a sample or detail from a larger garment, such as a kimono ori sash. Japanese silk weaving reached extraordinary heights during this time, with artisans employing intricate techniques like *kasuri* (ikat) or supplementary wefts to create subtle patterns, textures, and shimmering effects that captured the elegance of nature and seasonal motifs. Silk, pr...