Kesa

1830-1843

This kesa (a Buddhist monk’s overcoat) is made with pieces of brocade joined together as a patchwork. Decorated with repeated auspicious motifs—phoenix and peony—the lavish fabric was likely donated by a devotee from the imperial or other noble family. The act of donation accumulated karmic merit for the donor. An old master monk would pass his kesa on to his disciple, signifying transmission of the dharma (teaching).

Silk brocade

45 1/2 in. (115.6 cm)

L.: 79 15/16 in.

Eugene Fuller Memorial Collection

34.129

Photo: Beth Mann

Not currently on view

Resources

Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Asian Art Museum, Boundless: Stories of Asian Art, Feb. 8, 2020 - ongoing [on view beginning Jan. 13, 2023].

Seattle Art Museum respectfully acknowledges that we are on Indigenous land, the traditional territories of the Coast Salish people. We honor our ongoing connection to these communities past, present, and future.

Learn more about Equity at SAM