Theatrical robe (for a Taoist immortal) of yellow satin embroidered with large scale design of peaches, bats in medallions, and floral sprays. Collar-band, extending to waist, of embroidered white satin. Cuffs and all-around border of black satin embroidered with running floral pattern. Belt section, stitched at upper edge only, of embroidered black satin, and two narrow hanging panels of the same at each side of front opening. Long, very wide sleeves, chiefly satin and couched stitch. Lining of thin pink silk. Note This robe reputed to have been worn by a Tibetan prince.

Theatrical Robe for a Taoist Immortal, Kangxi period, 1662-1722

Unknown artist, expand_more

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The John R. Van Derlip Fundexpand_more  42.8.115

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On the occasion of the fiftieth birthday of the Empress Dowager Cixi in 1884, several operas were scheduled during a two-week long celebration at the Palace of Eternal Spring in the Forbidden City. The popular play “The Imperial Birthday” had many actors playing the roles of Daoist immortals in crowd-pleasing costumes such as this.

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Details
Title
Theatrical Robe for a Taoist Immortal
Role
Artist
Dimension
53 1/4 in. (135.26 cm) (object part, center back [collar to hem]) 47 1/4 in. (120.02 cm) (object part, bottom of back [edge to edge horizontally]) 91 1/4 in. (231.78 cm) (object part, across shoulders [cuff to cuff])
Accession Number
42.8.115
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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Theatrical robe (for a Taoist immortal) of yellow satin embroidered with large scale design of peaches, bats in medallions, and floral sprays. Collar-band, extending to waist, of embroidered white satin. Cuffs and all-around border of black satin embroidered with running floral pattern. Belt section, stitched at upper edge only, of embroidered black satin, and two narrow hanging panels of the same at each side of front opening. Long, very wide sleeves, chiefly satin and couched stitch. Lining of thin pink silk. Note This robe reputed to have been worn by a Tibetan prince.