Noh Costume (Chōken) with Wisteria, Waves, and Purple Bands

Period:
Edo period (1615–1868)
Date:
first half of the 19th century
Culture:
Japan
Medium:
Plain-weave-patterned silk gauze brocaded in silk and metallic thread
Dimensions:
Overall: 48 x 84 1/4 in. (121.9 x 214 cm)
Classification:
Costumes
Credit Line:
Purchase, Gifts, Bequests, and Funds from various donors, by exchange, 1951
Accession Number:
51.137.6
  • Description

    Late spring brings the fragrance and delicate blossoms of cascading wisteria, celebrated in Japanese poetry and frequently seen as a pattern on Noh costumes. The ornamentation of this chōken dancing cloak is especially intricate: the multicolored wisteria blooms against bold horizontal bands of purple and white, while the background consists of a subtle woven pattern of waves within opposing vertical serpentines (tatewaku).

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    In the Museum
    Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History
60012963

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