Headband (Kazura-obi) and Sash (Koshi-obi) with Ivy

late 18th–early 19th century

Not on view

Returned to lender

This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.

Headbands such as this one with a pattern of ivy and stylized arabesques (karakusa), are tied around the head to hold wigs in place for female roles. As with sashes, only the midsection (across the forehead) and the trailing ends are decorated. This elegant set has a green ground with silk embroidery featuring fixed stitches. The plain-weave ramie sections are embellished with stenciled gold-leaf patterns (surihaku) of paulownia flowers and leaves.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

緑地蔦唐草模様鬘帯と腰帯
Title: Headband (Kazura-obi) and Sash (Koshi-obi) with Ivy
Period: Edo period (1615–1868)
Date: late 18th–early 19th century
Culture: Japan
Medium: Silk satin with silk embroidery
Dimensions: Headband (a): 1 7/8 in. × 91 in. (4.8 × 231.1 cm)
Belt (b): 2 3/4 in. × 8 ft. 9 in. (7 × 266.7 cm)
Classification: Costumes
Credit Line: Lent by John C. Weber Collection
Curatorial Department: Asian Art