This small triangular uchishiki, a Buddhist altar textile, showcases silk and metallic-embroidered 'Hai Riyo' (dragon-bird) and wave motifs on a red wool background. Unlike typical Japanese dragons, the Hai Riyo is depicted with feathered wings, a bird-like body, and tail while maintaining the distinctive, dragon-like face. The Hai Riyo was considered the most evolved form of dragons, having progressed through the regular dragon life-cycle to reach this ultimate state. Depictions of this remarkable creature adorn ornamental screens at the Chi-on-in monastery in Kyoto.

It comes with a cotton lining and is the smaller piece of a set (refer to item 2036 for its counterpart). This uchishiki remains in very good condition, measuring 14 inches by 9 inches (36 cm by 23 cm).

This artwork is featured on pages 96-97 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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