Dark brown-ground kimono with beige decoration, late 19th-early 20th century
Unknown Japaneseexpand_more
Cloth: hemp; katazome (stencil resist)expand_more
The John R. Van Derlip Fund and the Mary Griggs Burke Endowment Fund established by the Mary Livingston Griggs and Mary Griggs Burke Foundation; purchase from the Thomas Murray Collectionexpand_more 2019.20.91
Not on Viewexpand_more
Material and technique: Hemp and stencil resist dye (katazome)
Occupants of Japan’s diverse and geographically vast area have exchanged materials, techniques, and finished textiles for centuries, sourcing goods for reasons of both practicality and taste. Okinawan textiles, from the Ryūkyū Islands in the far south, were fashionable in mainland Japan, while wearing mainland fabrics was popular in Okinawa. Unlike other bast fibers, hemp was relatively rare in the Ryūkyū Islands, which added an element of exclusivity and luxury. The fabric for this garment was likely woven and dyed in Kyushu, the southernmost of the four main islands of Japan, and then exported as a bolt. The construction is atypical for either region; the shorter length and long collar are typical for Okinawa, yet the detached sleeves without gussets are features of mainland robes. It was likely worn by a commoner woman on formal occasions.
Details
- Title
- Dark brown-ground kimono with beige decoration
- Role
- Maker
- Accession Number
- 2019.20.91
- Catalogue Raisonne
- Murray et al. 2018, pl. 44
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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