This elegant temple hanging, or ban, is a significant artifact of Buddhist ritual from the transition between the late Edo and early Meiji period, specifically dated to 1864 (Ganji Gannen). Measuring 10 inches by 70 inches (25 cm x 178 cm), the long, slender format is designed to be suspended from the ceiling or a beam within a temple sanctuary.
The face of the hanging is crafted from luxurious kinran brocade—a high-status silk woven with flat strips of gilded paper or gold-covered thread to create glittering floral and geometric motifs. The pattern features large, repeating medallions of chrysanthemums and lotus-like blooms, symbols of purity and the Japanese imperial or noble classes. A unique historical feature of this piece is its provenance; the cotton reverse lining is inscribed in kanji with the names of the original dedicators who gifted the textile to the temple for spiritual merit. Despite its age, it remains in very good condition with only minor staining.