Stencil
Unknown Artist
Medium
Paper
Dimensions
21 1/2 x 16 1/4 in. (54.61 x 41.27 cm)
Classification
Stencils
Culture & Period
Japan · Edo period (1615–1868)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Clarence McKenzie Lewis, 1953
Accession Number
53.101.67
Tags
Art Historical Context
This delicate paper stencil from Japan's Edo period (16151868) exemplifies the ingenuity of traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Measuring 21½ × 16¼ inches, it features intricate floral motifs, a tag that hints at its blooming designs inspired by nature's beauty—a common theme in Edo art reflecting the era's fascination with seasonal flowers like cherry blossoms or chrysanthemums. Produced during a time of peace and urban prosperity, such stencils were essential tools in the vibrant world of textile production, bridging fine art and everyday luxury. Crafted from thin paper, likely mulberry (wa...