Priest's Hat
Late 19th century, Meiji period (1868–1912)
Silk and gilt-paper strip; plain weave with secondary binding warps and supplementary patterning wefts
58.7 × 28.6 cm (23.1 × 11.3 in)
SEE IT IN PERSON
Not currently on view
In the collection of Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · as of July 2026
Discussion
FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG
Priest's hats in a form similar to this resplendent example from the late 19th century are still worn today. The pattern of the fabric consists of two slightly different peony blossoms framed within scrolling vines and leaves. The use of deluxe kinran fabric, consisting of gilt-paper strips and silk, and the incorporation of a lining of purple, a color used only by high-ranking Buddhist officials, suggest that this hat belonged to a priest of high rank.
Be the first to share your thoughts.
Sign in to join the discussion.
