This magnificent silk brocade uchishiki (altar cloth) is a rare, double-dated historical textile. Measuring 26 inches by 26 inches (66 cm x 66 cm), the cloth is rendered on a warm, golden-brown silk ground and features an intricate landscape of celestial beings and auspicious symbols.

The complex supplemental weft brocade incorporates several profound Buddhist and Taoist motifs:

• The Celestial Trio: The composition includes a soaring crane (symbolizing longevity), a majestic peacock (symbolizing dignity and beauty), and a phoenix—a mythical creature representing humanity, reliability, and correct behavior.
• Goshiki-un: Scattered across the field are "five-color" clouds in vibrant shades of purple, green, and blue. These signify divine authority and the presence of a Buddha descending to earth.
• Floral Roundels: Two large, shimmering gold-threaded roundels featuring intricate floral and foliate patterns ground the left side of the composition.
• Provenance: The white silk lining is inscribed with kanji documenting its history: an initial dedication in 1854 (Ansei 1) during the late Edo period, followed by a rededication in 1890 (Meiji 22).

The textile is in good condition, showing only minor signs of its age, including several tiny pinholes and a light stain in one corner.

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