Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami

Woman's Jacket

Artist/Maker Artist Unknown (Artist Unknown)

Datelate 19th century

Mediumsilk, dye and copper alloy

DimensionsOverall: 41 1/4 x 57 in. (104.8 x 144.8 cm)

ClassificationsCostumes and Accessories

Credit LineGift of Mr. and Mrs. David Richards

Terms

Object number2003.27

On View

Not on view

Collections

Art of Asia

DescriptionThis jacket would have been worn over an embroidered skirt. The designs include floral sprays and medallions containing historical as well as mythological and dramatic scenes. Animals, both real and imaginary, also decorate the garment. The most elaborate embroideries, brocade, and tapestries were produced by the Chinese during the Qing Dynasty, particularly during the reign of the Emperor Qianlong (1736-1795). During his reign the court robes of the emperors and empresses, court ladies and officials, were remodeled to suit the seasons of the year and different official occasions. These robes began to appear on the market soon after the abdication in 1912 of the last Qing emperor, Xuantung (1908-1911). Most Western collections of Chinese robes were established between 1924, the year Xuantung left the Imperial Palace, and the late 1930s, when court robes flooded onto the market. It is possible that this robe made its way onto the market during this period.