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.
Credit: Rogers Fund, 1930
18th century
Silk and metallic thread tapestry (kesi)
75.6 x 155.6cm
30.76.32
Image and text © Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2019
Where you'll find this
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Permanent collection