Manchu Woman’s Unofficial Informal Vest, 19th century
Unknown artist, Chinaexpand_more
Silkexpand_more
The John R. Van Derlip Fundexpand_more 42.8.77
On View in Gallery 217expand_more
The body of this vest is decorated with butterflies and sprays of flowers, including chrysanthemums, peonies, roses, wisterias, and plum blossoms. Loved both for their beauty and their symbolism, flowers have a long and storied history in Chinese culture. Different flowers indicate different concepts based on how and when they grow, historical figures that might be associated with them, or other unique characteristics. Peonies, for example, are known as the “king of flowers,” their large, lush blossoms symbolizing wealth, royalty, honor, and beauty. The cranes decorating the trim are also seen as auspicious—divine beings that can travel between the earthly and heavenly realms.
Details
- Title
- Manchu Woman’s Unofficial Informal Vest
- Role
- Artist
- Dimension
- L.52 in.
- Accession Number
- 42.8.77
- 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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