Kesa
Early or mid–19th century, Edo period (1789–1868)
Silk and gilt-paper strip; twill and satin weaves with secondary binding warps and supplementary patterning wefts
96.8 × 191.8 cm (38.1 × 75.5 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
This attractive vestment is a good example of adaptive reuse. The pattern of the main fabric was originally used for hangings and furniture covers, and the presence of soil lines and mended areas suggests that this piece had been used as a cover. Multiple seams in the border fabric as well as the incorporation of the six squares in different material in place ofrather than on top ofthe main fabric indicate that the principal fabric was in short supply and had to be pieced judiciously.
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