Kesa
Late 19th century, Meiji period (1868–1912)
Japan
Japan
Scattered across the off-white expanse of silk in this kesa are multiple versions of colorful embroidered peacocks, peonies, and scepters, which once served as a symbol of authority in connection with Chinese Buddhism. Much of the embroidery and appliqued gold crosses seams, indicating that the panel was completely assembled before the embroidery work began.
Silk; plain weave, embroidered and appliqued with silk and gilt-paper-strip-wrapped silk; silk cord and tassels