Minneapolis Institute of Art

Theatrical Robe for a Warrior

China

Date

Kangxi period, 1662–1722

Medium

Satin

Department

Asian Art

Institution

Minneapolis Institute of Art

This vibrant stage robe proclaims martial strength through its imagery. Two spirited horses leap across the hem, embodying the military valor long associated with the animal in Chinese culture. Their presence also forms the auspicious rebus, or puzzle, known as madao chenggong, meaning “success upon the arrival of the horse”—a wish for swift victory. Winged lions at the waist and fierce lion masks on the front panels amplify the robe’s message of power. Worn by an actor portraying a warrior, this costume signaled courage, triumph, and heroic identity to audiences in traditional Chinese theater. China, Asia

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