Buddhist Surplice (Kesa)
Unknown Artist
The kesa is a Buddhist monk's vestment worn folded and draped over one shoulder, and fastened over the chest. In keeping with the austere conditions of monastic life, kesa were traditionally fashioned from remainders of donated garments sewn together into a series of columns. The wider, central column symbolizes the Buddha. The orange squares with a phoenix and flower pattern in each corner represent the deities who guard the four directions, while the two at the top on either side of the central column symbolize attendant bodhisattvas, or the Nio, guardians who protect the Buddhist Law. This kesa is sewn from a textile with bold roundels with dragon and phoenix motifs.
Credit: Gift of Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Wade
early 1900s
Silk with supplementary weft, brocaded; metal thread
114.3 x 205.7cm
1916.1345
Image and text: The Cleveland Museum of Art, 2023
Where you'll find this
The Cleveland Museum of Art
Permanent collection