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Woman’s skirt (mamian qun)

Gallery Location
Not on View
Medium Damask, satin, and gold-wrapped thread
Geography
China
Date c. 1900
Period Guangxu (r. 1875-1908), Qing Dynasty
Dimensions 39 1/2 in.
Object number 959.27.2
Credit Line Gift of Alice W. Lindsay
Cataloguer Dr. Ka Bo Tsang ROM Staff, -2013
Description

This beautiful skirt demonstrates how an innovative design can overcome the restrictions of a standard format. The skirt’s green fabric is teamed with other materials and ribbons in yellow, purple, pink, and blue. Together they form a geometric pattern surrounded by a row of the ruyi (wish-fulfillment) motifs in the main panel. This striking pattern is echoed by the more delicate chevron stripes appliquéd on the pleats. Another traditional motif not to be missed, the endless knot (panchang), is found in the lower corners of the main panel. It signifies a wish for longevity.

Woman’s skirt (mamian qun)
Woman’s skirt (mamian qun) - 959.27.2_1_doc20110418_IMG0628
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