Textile Sample from Sample Book

Art Historical Context

This delicate silk textile sample, hailing from 19th-century Japan, offers a glimpse into the exquisite world of woven fabrics during a transformative era. Measuring just 3¼ × 1¾ inches, it was once part of a sample bookpractical portfolios used by merchants and exporters to showcase patterns to potential buyers. Acquired through the Rogers Fund in 1909, it now resides in the Metropolitan Museum Art's Asian Art Department exemplifying Japan's mastery of silk weaving. Crafted from fine silk, the piece highlights the technical prowess of Japanese textile artisans. Woven techniques allowed for i...