Dashi-fukusa Cloth (Tea-things) (Gyoshiki Tempyo Karahana Monnishiki)

The design of this brocade is a variation of schematic motifs of floral roundels and diamonds which were very popular with the T'ang Dynasty textiles. Its refined and superb pattern exemplifies the beauty of brocades woven in the Tempyo Era (8th century). The floral design here is seen in the coverings of arm-rests preserved in the Shosõin Collection. Replacing the weft-patterned original in white, yellow, red, green and purple on a white ground, this piece is a warp-patterned weave. With a richer color scheme, the reproduction is successfully executed into such a brilliant and gorgeous brocade.