Cassidy Ellison

Title of Work:

Investigation of 8th Century Dyed Textiles From Japan

Abstract:

The conservation and analysis of artifacts used in Buddhist rituals is vital for protecting a significant part of Japanese culture. During Emperor Shomu’s reign, Buddhism had become the official religion of Japan, thus creating a surge of temples that served as schools of thought. Within the Todaiji was the Shosoin, where several textiles used by the Emperor himself, or was used in religious contexts were stored.

These 8th century articles are some of the most vibrant textiles of its time, and has lasted to this day. Analyzing such culturally significant textiles is important to conservation of Buddhist history in Japan. The artifacts are lining of a mirror case, two rolls of plain silk, a sleeveless coat for a dancer, and a pair of Empress Komyo’s embroidered shoes.

The colors that were investigated were kariyasu yellow( Amur cork tree bark), kihada yellow (Eulalia stems and leaves), akane red (Japanese madder roots), shikon purple (Murasaki roots), and ai blue (Japanese Knotweed.) All material used were reported in the document, Engishiki.

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