Qi Fu (Eunuch's Robe, Serving Imperial Court)
Artist/Culture
Chinese
DateQing Dynasty, late 19th century
Mediumsilk satin brocaded in various shades of silk and gold file
Dimensions136 x 64 cm (53 9/16 x 25 3/16 in.)
ClassificationsCostumes and Accessories
Credit LineGiven in memory of Frank M. Peterson
Object number1988.65
DescriptionBronze (yellow-green) with one large dragon, one front and back, and smaller dragon on each shoulderLabel TextThe color of this robe indicates it was made for a eunuch serving the imperial Qing court. Following the Qing convention of four principal dragons radiating from the neck opening, the depiction represents a diagram of the universe. Its symbolism is complete only when the coat is worn and the human body becomes the world axis. The neck opening, the apex of the universe, then separates the material world from the spiritual, represented by the wearer's head.ProvenanceMrs. Helen Devio, Somers, CT.
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