This monumental uchishiki (Buddhist altar hanging), explicitly dated 1857, is a significant textile artifact from the twilight of the Edo period. Measuring approximately 56 inches by 76 inches (142 cm x 193 cm), the hanging is crafted from a rich brown silk brocade featuring three massive, central family crests (mon) executed in meticulous gold metallic couching embroidery.
The central crest is the sixteen-petaled chrysanthemum (kiku), the exalted symbol of the Imperial House of Japan. Flanking it are two hollyhock (aoi) crests, the unmistakable heraldry of the Tokugawa Shogunate. The presence of both symbols on a single dedicatory textile suggests a high-ranking commission, likely for a temple with significant political or protective ties to both the Emperor and the Shogun. While the piece is in fair to good condition, its 170-year history is visible through several small holes and localized staining across the brocade surface.