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Kyōgen Suit (Suō) with Rabbits Jumping over Waves

mid-19th century

Not on view

The suō—an unlined hemp suit with double-width sleeves, large sleeve openings, and matching pleated hakama pants—was originally part of the samurai wardrobe and was later adapted to Kyōgen comic theater. White rabbits hop over waves on this suit, the playful motif referring to the story “The Hare of Inaba,” from the Records of Ancient Matters (Kojiki, ca. 710). This text was later referenced in the Noh play Chikubushima (Chikubushima Island), which describes the moon’s reflection in Lake Biwa as a rabbit (a legendary inhabitant of the moon) running over the waves. Suō with large patterns and bright colors were used for roles of benevolent characters such as a bridegroom, daimyo, or wealthy man. As the long hakama pants are subject to intense wear, it is rare to find a complete ensemble like this one.

Kyōgen Suit (Suō) with Rabbits Jumping over Waves, Plain-weave hemp with tube-drawn paste-resist dyeing (tsutsugaki) with hand-painted details, Japan — This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Kyōgen Suit (Suō) with Rabbits Jumping over Waves, Plain-weave hemp with tube-drawn paste-resist dyeing (tsutsugaki) with hand-painted details, Japan

Kyōgen Suit (Suō) with Rabbits Jumping over Waves, Plain-weave hemp with tube-drawn paste-resist dyeing (tsutsugaki) with hand-painted details, Japan

Kyōgen Suit (Suō) with Rabbits Jumping over Waves, Plain-weave hemp with tube-drawn paste-resist dyeing (tsutsugaki) with hand-painted details, Japan

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This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

波に兎模様素襖裃

Title: Kyōgen Suit (Suō) with Rabbits Jumping over Waves

Period: Edo period (1615–1868)

Date: mid-19th century

Culture: Japan

Medium: Plain-weave hemp with tube-drawn paste-resist dyeing (tsutsugaki) with hand-painted details

Dimensions: Jacket (a): 31 1/8 × 71 in. (79.1 × 180.3 cm)

Classification: Costumes

Credit Line: Lent by John C. Weber Collection

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Asian Art at The Met

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