Seven-Panel Buddhist Monk’s Vestment (Shichijō kesa) with Peony Arabesque

18th century

Not on view

The transmission of the Buddhist master’s vestment (kesa) to the disciple represents the transmission of the dharma (teaching), especially in Zen Buddhism. The only person able to recognize that the disciple is on the way to enlightenment (or has reached it) is the master, who has already experienced it. Kesa are treasured and associated with those who wore or owned them.

Small, rectangular pieces of fabric are joined together to form one kesa. Many robes have been created from cut-up religious offerings, reflecting the idea that what is worthless in the secular world translates into the sacred in the Buddhist realm.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

七条袈裟　牡丹唐草文様
Title: Seven-Panel Buddhist Monk’s Vestment (Shichijō kesa) with Peony Arabesque
Period: Muromachi period (1392–1573)
Date: 18th century
Culture: Japan
Medium: Twill-weave silk with gold supplementary weft patterning (kinran)
Dimensions: 42 x 78 in. (106.68 x 198.12 cm)
Classification: Textiles-Costumes
Credit Line: Purchase, Joseph Pulitzer Bequest, 1919
Object Number: 19.93.23
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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