the montgomery collection, crow museum of asian art

"Jeffrey Montogomery is more than a collector; he identifies himself as as keeper. He feels priviledged to own a large array of works that represent an impressive variety of styles, forms, provenances, motifs, influences, and uess, all related to Japan- a country which has always fascinated him, and which he regularly visited for many decades. There are two elements of the culture and its objects that nurtured the deep bond between Montgomery and Japan: the strong ties with nature and the subtle implication of transience of the world."

Bedding cover (futonji) with castle design,

Meiji Period, late 19th century

"Images that often depicted in this type of ikat, such as castles, Shinto shrines, and battleships, are associated with nationalistic fervor. The four-story castle stands on a high stone base represent lanterns or a torii gate which marks the entrance to a shrine. In the upper right and left corners float two identical figures that are seemingly unrelated to the castle itself."

Bedding cover (futonji) with castle design,

Futonji with design of pine, bamboo, and plum trees- auspicious symbols associated with New Year

Meiji period, early 20th century.

Decorative curtain (maku) with design of two courtiers seated under a cherry tree

Late Edo period, second half of 19th century

Buddhist altar cover with lotus flowers

Meiji period, late 19th century

" In Buddhist art, a fully blooming lotus flower signifies enlightenment, while a closed bud represents a time before enlightenment. In general, the lotus serves as a sacred symbol for purity, rebirth, and strength. This textile was an altar covering for a Buddhist temple and a reminder of the strength needed to reach enlightenment."

Futonji with design of two spiny lobster

Meiji period, late 19th century

"The sense of tension created by curving bodies of the two lobsters with their tails about to spring into motion entirely fills this austere composition. Lobsters live for many years, and in Japan their curved bodies were believed to resemble the hunched backs of the elderly, while their antennae suggested the mustache of old age. Thus, lobsters are symbols of longetivity and their images appear on infants' clothing and carrying bands, as well as on bedding and other celebratory textiles."