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Battle Flag (Sashimono) with Nine-Circle Crest

first half 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.
The dramatic combination of red and gold was popular on battle surcoats, armor, and battle flags. The nine-circle crest refers to the nine planets and is associated with the Hosokawa family. Warriors wore this type of small banner (sashimono) with the daimyo’s crest for identification mounted on a pole attached to the back of the armor.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 赤地九曜紋指物
  • Title: Battle Flag (Sashimono) with Nine-Circle Crest
  • Period: Edo period (1615–1868)
  • Date: first half 19th century
  • Culture: Japan
  • Medium: Plain-weave silk with gold-leaf application
  • Dimensions: 22 7/8 × 15 3/8 in. (58.1 × 39.1 cm)
  • Classification: Textiles
  • Credit Line: Lent by John C. Weber Collection
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art