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Buddhist Vestment (Kesa) with Clematis Flowers, Leaves, and Vines

17th century
Not on view
Buddhist vestments were usually made from donated textiles or from garments that were cut into pieces and then assembled into patchwork onfigurations. Such donations constitute shôgon, or adornment of the Buddha—realm, an act that results in the accumulation of karmic merit for the donor.

This kesa consists of a type of cloth called karaori, in which the design is brocaded in long, floating silk wefts of many colors—nine colors in this fine example. The same kind of cloth was used for a Noh costume also called karaori, usually worn as an outer robe by an actor playing a female role.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Buddhist Vestment (Kesa) with Clematis Flowers, Leaves, and Vines
  • Period: Edo period (1615–1868)
  • Date: 17th century
  • Culture: Japan
  • Medium: Body of the kesa: brocaded silk twill (karaori); Squares: silk and metallic-thread lampas
  • Dimensions: Overall: 40 1/2 x 81 1/2 in. (102.9 x 207 cm)
  • Classification: Textiles-Costumes
  • Credit Line: Purchase, Joseph Pulitzer Bequest, 1919
  • Object Number: 19.93.7
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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