Female's theatrical garment

This elaborate garment is a theatrical costume for a female role. The embroidered motifs scattered all over the garment, including dragons, gourds, flowers, and peaches, are auspicious symbols for success, prosperity, and nobility. The appliqués and hangings from the shoulder are in the form of mushroom-shaped wish-granting wands. The sleeves are sewn with ten garland trims distinguished by colors. From the waist, three layers of straps hang down loosely and, together with yellow ribbons and beaded red tassels, will flare out as the wearer dances, creating a dazzling visual effect.

Theatrical costumes like this were custom made, labor intensive to create, and fairly expensive. As traditional opera performances revived with newly developed music and dances, theatrical costumes evolved rapidly, becoming a type of fashion with bright colors, increasingly ornate designs, and splendid accessories. During the nineteenth century, such a costume could consist of dozens of parts, materials, colors, and motifs, as shown in this garment that combined Manchu and Han elements of the time.