Piece

Art Historical Context

This exquisite silk textile fragment, dating to Japan's Edo period (1615–8), offers a glimpse into the refined artistry of 18th- to 19th-century weaving traditions. During the Edo era, a time of relative peace and prosperity under the Tokugawa shog, Japanese textile production flourished, particularly in urban centers like Kyoto. Artisans crafted luxurious silks for kimonos, obi sashes, and ceremonial garments, reflecting social status and seasonal motifs through intricate patterns. Woven from fine silk, this small piece (just 4¼ × 3¾ inches) exemplifies the technical mastery of Edo-period we...