Artwork Page for Sumibōshi

Details / Information for Sumibōshi

Sumibōshi

角帽子

1800–1850

Japan, Edo period

(1615–1868)
Medium
silksatin weave; metal thread weft
Measurements
Average: 257.2 x 67.3 cm (101 1/4 x 26 1/2 in.)
Credit Line
Worcester R. Warner Collection 1916.11
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
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Did You Know?

The design on this hat is meant to resemble metal hanging ornaments adorning the interiors of Japanese Buddhist temples.

Description

Sumibōshi literally means "hat with corners" in Japanese, and refers to the square shape made when this textile hat is tied on the head. Actors playing the roles of religious figures in Nō theater often wear this kind of cap. It derives from Buddhist vestments.
A vertically long navy silk textile, tapering to a point at the top, features repeating patterns in shimmering gold thread. Three columns of symmetrical motifs include four-petaled floral circles, diamond shapes, and bell-like forms with dangling geometric pendants. A large four-lobed flower anchors the pointed apex, framed by scalloped edges. The dense golden ornamentation stands in high contrast against the deep blue ground, ending in an unadorned band at the base.

Sumibōshi

1800–1850

Japan, Edo period (1615–1868)

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