This rare triangular uchishiki (Buddhist altar cloth) is a significant Mid-Edo period (1700–1800) textile and serves as the primary counterpart to item 2037. The piece features two meticulously embroidered Hai Riyo (dragon-birds) descending toward cresting wave motifs, rendered in vibrant silk and metallic threads. Against a bold red wool ground, these mythological creatures are depicted with feathered wings and bird-like bodies, yet they retain unmistakable dragon-like faces.

In Japanese Buddhist lore, the Hai Riyo represents the absolute pinnacle of a dragon's evolution, a spiritual state reached only after completing the regular dragon life cycle. This specific iconography is historically linked to the Chion-in monastery in Kyoto, where similar "dragon-bird" depictions decorate the ornamental screens. Measuring 35 inches by 21 inches (89 cm x 53 cm), this cloth features a white cotton lining and remains in very good condition, showing only approximately ten tiny, age-related holes in the wool.

This artwork is featured on pages 92-95 of Ceremonial Textiles of Japan, 18th to 20th Centuries. This book, published by Yorke Antique Textiles, can be previewed or purchased on our website here.

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