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Kyogen theater costume (suo) with a butterfly motif
Kyogen theater costume (suo) with a butterfly motif

Kyogen theater costume (suo) with a butterfly motif

Place of OriginJapan
Dateapprox. 1800-1850
PeriodEdo period (1615-1868)
MaterialsRamie or hemp with paste-resist dyeing and hand-applied colors
DimensionsH. 63 in x W. 25 in, H. 160 cm x W. 63 cm (A pants), H. 34 1/2 in x W. 75 in, H. 88 cm x W. 190 cm (B top)
Credit LineMuseum purchase
Object number2007.18.a-.b
DepartmentJapanese Art
ClassificationsTextiles
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Kyogen (literally, "crazy acting") developed alongside Noh drama and was originally performed as entr'actes for Noh performances. Kyogen, unlike Noh, is a comical form.

This Kyogen theater costume (suo) consists of a formal, broad-sleeved cloak and a long matching skirt (nagabakama). Derived from formal garments of the high-ranking samurai class, this costume was adapted for use by male Noh actors portraying mainly militaryrelated roles.

The costume is made of indigo-dyed plain-weave hemp of medium weight. It is decorated with a motif of fanciful butterflies created by covering part of the fabric with a resistant paste before it was dyed. The same motif decorates the sides of the upper hip areas of the skirt. The cloak has flat leather cords attached to the collar at chest level.

The illustration shows how this formal set of garments looked when it was worn. The extremely long skirt was intended to cover the legs and feet of the wearer.