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https://piction.clevelandart.org/cma/ump.di?e=07A2F86C1BE1A62D5924532B51AECACD606CDA0B6BD66B6BF06476A0ADDDBF03&s=24247294&se=484896274&v=5&f=1916.1340_o2.jpg
Apr 18, 2007
Buddhist Vestment (Kesa)
Buddhist Vestment (Kesa)
花喰鳥文袈裟
early 1900s
Japan, Meiji period
(1868-1912)
Silk with supplementary weft, brocaded; metal thread
Overall: 119.4 x 205.7 cm (47 x 81 in.)
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Wade 1916.1340
Location
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Did you know?
This kesa depicts bird cages, but all the birds portrayed fly free.
Description
Kesa are Buddhist monastic robes that originated in India. The robes are named after the brown or saffron dye originally used in their production. The primary motif on this seven-paneled kesa is a long-tailed bird with a flower in its mouth. This motif was imported from Persia (present-day Iran) through China during the Nara period (710–794)and is interpreted as a positive symbol. The bird delivers happiness in its mouth.
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