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Semi-formal court robe (jifu)
Chinese
Qing dynasty, Qialong period
1736-1796
Object Place: China
Medium/Technique
Silk; split tapestry-weave ground with silk and gold-metallic thread, metal buttons
Dimensions
147 x 190.8 cm (57 7/8 x 75 1/8 in.)
Credit Line
William Sturgis Bigelow Collection
Accession Number11.3985
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAsia, Fashion and Textiles
ClassificationsCostumes
DescriptionEmperor's semi-formal court robe (jifu) with horse-shoe cuffs and side opening with round metal buttons and design of waves and mountain across the bottom, nine five-clawed dragons clutching pearls of wisdom, Chinese characters for longevity and twelve Imperial symbols on a yellow silk tapestry ground with interlocking swastika pattern; neck facing and cuffs of dark blue tapestry with dragons, clouds and waves; lined with blue silk damask.
ProvenanceBy 1911, purchased by William Sturgis Bigelow (b. 1850 - d. 1926), Boston [see note 1]; 1911, gift of Bigelow to the MFA. (Accession Date: August 3, 1911)
NOTES:
[1] Much of Bigelow's collection of Asian art was formed during his residence in Japan between 1882 and 1889, although he also made acquisitions in Europe and the United States. Bigelow deposited many of these objects at the MFA in 1890 before donating them to the Museum's collection at later dates.
NOTES:
[1] Much of Bigelow's collection of Asian art was formed during his residence in Japan between 1882 and 1889, although he also made acquisitions in Europe and the United States. Bigelow deposited many of these objects at the MFA in 1890 before donating them to the Museum's collection at later dates.