Noh Costume (Karaori) with Pine-Bark Diamonds and Peonies, Formerly owned by the Uesugi family, Edo period, 18th century
Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 9
January 2, 2020 (Thu) - February 24, 2020 (Mon)
Noh theater, one of Japan’s traditional performing arts, was presented at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples as an offering to the gods. In return, people hoped to be blessed with rich harvests, numerous descendants, as well as long and healthy lives. For this reason, props and costumes for Noh were often decorated with auspicious patterns – some Chinese in origin and others uniquely Japanese – that reflected these wishes. We invite visitors to take a closer look at these brilliant patterns that embody the hope for good fortune.
Current exhibit includes:
Noh Costume (Chōken) with Fans, Peonies, and Chrysanthemums, Edo period, 18th century
Noh Costume (Karaori) with Pine-Bark Diamonds and Peonies, Formerly owned by the Uesugi family, Edo period, 18th century
Noh Costume (Maiginu) with Phoenixes and Paulownias, Edo period, 18th century (Lent by Agency for Cultural Affairs)
Noh Costume (Hangire) with Dragon Among Clouds, Blades, and Mountains, Edo period, 19th century (Lent by Agency for Cultural Affairs)