Minneapolis Institute of Art

Manchu Woman's Informal Court Robe

China

Date

late 19th century

Medium

Silk tapestry (kesi)

Department

Asian Art

Institution

Minneapolis Institute of Art

The informal level of court attire called ch'ang-fu included garments worn outside official court ceremonies. The more formal ch'ang-fu robes used the eight medallion scheme, imperial wave pattern in the hem, and large flared cuffs seen here. This striking gown features medallions and cuffs decorated with grass orchids (cymbidiums) and butterflies in well-coordinated patterns that create a sense of harmony. In addition to being a favorite flower of literati painters, the orchid is also a pun for grandson. Informal special occasion robes tended to feature auspicious flowers and insects in their decoration rather than dragons, which designated official court attire. China, Asia

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