Dragon costume

anonymous, anoniem, anoniem, anonymous, c. 1800 - c. 1899

This costume was part of court dress during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) and intended for summer wear. It is embroidered with nine five- clawed dragons on the chest, back, shoulders and hips. The ninth dragon is hidden on the inside. The other decoration is also symmetrical, symbolizing the harmony of the universe.