Theatrical armor with dragons

China

Not on view

This garment is part of a set of costume armor based on the style of the eighteenth-century Manchu Qing court. The lining bears a rectangular stamp reading “used by the Grand Theater,” which indicates that it was worn by performers in the Forbidden City. The exceptional tapestry work depicting five-clawed dragons, a symbol of the emperor, further confirms the robe’s imperial palace origin.

On view during Rotation 1 of exhibition from June 25, 2016 through January 13, 2017.

Theatrical armor with dragons, Silk and metallic thread tapestry (kesi), China

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