Battle Flag (Sashimono) with Five-Element Stupa

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.

This flag has a stencil-dyed crest of a five-element stupa that originally functioned as a grave marker or cenotaph and derived from a similar stupa containing relics of the historical Buddha. Its stone pieces also represent the five elements—from bottom to top: earth, water, fire, wind, and space. This insignia is often seen on samurai flags.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

赤地五輪塔紋指物
Title: Battle Flag (Sashimono) with Five-Element Stupa
Period: Edo period (1615–1868)
Date: first half 19th century
Culture: Japan
Medium: Plain-weave silk with stencil paste-resist dyeing (kata-zome)
Dimensions: 30 × 19 7/8 in. (76.2 × 50.5 cm)
Classification: Textiles
Credit Line: Lent by John C. Weber Collection
Curatorial Department: Asian Art