celadon green ground with orchid and butterfly roundels; diagonal stripes with wave and mountain pattern at hem

Manchu Woman's Informal Court Robe, late 19th century

Unknown artist, expand_more
Not on Viewexpand_more

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.

Details
Title
Manchu Woman's Informal Court Robe
Role
Artist
Accession Number
91.113.3
Curator Approved

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celadon green ground with orchid and butterfly roundels; diagonal stripes with wave and mountain pattern at hem