orange-brown robe with brown, vertical stripes; white, interior lining over shoulders and upper back

Brown-ground lined Ryūkyūan robe (ryūso), late 19th-early 20th century

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This robe is an example of uchinaasugai, the traditional formal attire of the Ryūkyū Kingdom (present-day Okinawa). Because of the kingdom’s trade relations with China and Japan, Ryūkyū garments share similarities with the Japanese kimono and Chinese hanfu, such as the crossed neckline and tubular sleeves. Banana plants grow abundantly in the tropical climate of Okinawa, and the fibers from their stems were used to create light and airy garments suitable for hot and humid summers. This garment was reinforced with cotton on the shoulders, upper back, and hem, a sign that it was well-worn.

Details
Title
Brown-ground lined Ryūkyūan robe (ryūso)
Role
Maker
Accession Number
2019.20.185
Provenance
Private Japanese Collection
Catalogue Raisonne
Murray et al. 2018, pl. 135
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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orange-brown robe with brown, vertical stripes; white, interior lining over shoulders and upper back