Kabuki Costumes
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Long-Sleeved Kimono (Furisode) with Cherry Blossoms and Flowing Water, Formerly used by Bandō Mitsue, Edo period, 19th century (Gift of Ms. Takagi Kiyō)
Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 9
March 7, 2023 (Tue) - April 23, 2023 (Sun)Kabuki was a major entertainment for the common people of the Edo period (1603–1868). Kabuki actors were the stars of the town, who set the latest fashion trends for women. Kabuki eventually became popular among samurai-class women as well — so popular that it was performed in the women’s quarters of the shogun’s castle.
Most men were prohibited from entering the women’s quarters, so kabuki was performed there by women. This was an exception to the custom of kabuki being performed exclusively by men. This exhibition features costumes that were owned by Bandō Mitsue (1809–1907), a renowned actress who performed in the women’s quarters. In connection with spring, the selection includes vibrant, boldly designed costumes with cherry blossoms.
| Designation | Name | Creation/ Excavation/ Provenance |
Period | Acquisition/ Ownership/ Accession Number |
CMT | ||
| Highlight | Kimono Undergarment ("Juban") with Dolls and the Shell-Matching Game | Formerly used by Bandō Mitsue | Edo period, 19th century | Gift of Ms. Takagi Kiyō, I-2078 | |||
| Highlight | Long-Sleeved Kimono ("Furisode") with Cherry Blossoms and Flowing Water | Formerly used by Bandō Mitsue | Edo period, 19th century | Gift of Ms. Takagi Kiyō, I-2056 | |||
| Highlight | Long-Sleeved Kimono ("Furisode") with Weeping Cherry Trees | Formerly used by Bandō Mitsue | Edo period, 19th century | Gift of Ms. Takagi Kiyō, I-2054 |