Kesa
Second half of the 18th century, Late Edo period (1789–1868)
Japan
Japan
This garment is exceptional in two ways. It is unusually well-presrved, with its ivory ring and all straps and cords in place, thus allowing its presentation on a form, over a robe, in a way that correctly simulates the way it was worn. Also, it was made from an uwagi, a formal over-robe worn only by woman of the highest social standing during the Edo period. Its decoration of rows of lozenges based on floral forms is entirely embroidered in silk and gilt-paper-wrapped thread.
Silk; plain weave, embroidered with silk and gilt-paper-strip-wrapped silk