Insignia for the wife of 3rd rank civil official (peacock)
Medium:Satin embroidered in silk, gold and silver thread, and coral beads
Geography: China
Date: late 19th century
Period: Tongzhi (r. 1861-1875) or Guangxu (r. 1875-1908), Qing Dynasty
Dimensions:30.3 x 30.3 cm
Object number: 950.100.66.A-C
Credit Line: Gift of Mrs. Sigmund Samuel
Description
Small in size but big in meaning, these rank badges were stitched to the front and back of robes worn by scholar-civil servants and their wives.The wearer’s husband had attained the status of 3rd rank, and the peacock’s
qualities of elegance, dignity and beauty. Passing civil service exams could take men up to 50 years of preparation.
These insignia were worn for audiences
at the Imperial Court and important domestic celebrations.
