Summer Robe with Plovers above Sandbars and Flowering Plants

first half of the 18th century

Not on view

Returned to lender

This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.

Hidden within the collar of this robe is an inscription labeling it as “very precious, high quality” cloth, attesting to the esteem accorded it at the time of production. The landscape scene of sandbars, flowering plants, and plovers concentrated on the lower half of this garment is a composition typical of the first half of the eighteenth century. Pattern books of this period are filled with designs inspired by Ogata Kōrin (1658–1716), giving rise to the term “Kōrin-motif” (Kōrin moyō). For instance, on this summer robe the chrysanthemum blossoms are expressed as circular outlines with large dots for centers, and stylized water patterns resemble a fanciful eddy. While the seasons associated with motifs on this garment range from summer through early winter, the bast-fiber material from which it is made renders it suitable for summer wear.

Artwork Details

Overview

Exhibition History

References

Title: Summer Robe with Plovers above Sandbars and Flowering Plants
Period: Edo period (1615–1868)
Date: first half of the 18th century
Culture: Japan
Medium: Ramie, paste-resist dyed
Dimensions: Overall: 59 x 44 1/2 in. (149.9 x 113 cm)
Classification: Textiles-Costumes
Credit Line: John C. Weber Collection
Curatorial Department: Asian Art