#215 Chinese Vest

Clothing/Dress/Costume

-

MMN Estate Inventory

Entry/Object ID

215 Chinese

Description

Chinese woman's ceremonial court vest (hsia-pei or xiapei), mid-19th century, featuring an embroidered xiezhi censor rank badge, the mythical horned beast associated with justice and the imperial censorate. The sleeveless, dark navy silk vest is richly embroidered with golden dragons, phoenixes, flowering peonies, auspicious cloud scrolls, and stylized waves in shades of blue, cream, coral, and gold. The rectangular rank badge is positioned across the upper chest, divided by the central front opening. The long, pointed front panels are edged with decorative brocade trim and finished with an elaborate knotted fringe and multicolored silk tassels. Traditionally worn by the wives of Qing Dynasty officials for formal court occasions, the vest reflects the wearer's ceremonial status and the elaborate craftsmanship of imperial Chinese textiles.

Acquisition

Acquisition Method

Purchase

Amount Paid

$3,200.00

Date

Nov 14, 1991

Acquired From

Jon Eric Riis

Name/Title

#215 Chinese Vest