Summer robe (katabira) with boats and reeds
Not on view
The design of this rare, 18th-century unlined summer robe (katabira)—boats amongst reeds—is based on asummer poem. The design—also popular in painting—is executed in very fine embroidery and gold thread couching. The distribution of the design elements, the playful representation of ropes, and the choice of colors created a dynamic, elegant composition. This type of stylish garment must have been owned by a wealthy merchant class lady for summer festivals or events.