Jacket and Skirt for Wedding

late 19th–20th century

Not on view

The principle of yin and yang was central to the clothing worn by bride and groom at a Chinese wedding. This jacket and skirt were appropriate dress for a Chinese bride, who, as a female (yin), wore an even number of garments, while her groom (yang) wore an odd number. Unlike Western bridal gowns, Chinese wedding ensembles were usually meant to be worn again for important celebrations, such as significant birthdays. The most typical pattern for bridal wear was the phoenix, but this ensemble features ears of grain with auspicious cranes, symbolic of longevity, both sumptuously embroidered in heavy gold threads.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

Title: Jacket and Skirt for Wedding
Period: Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
Date: late 19th–20th century
Culture: China
Medium: Silk and metallic thread embroidery on silk satin
Dimensions: Overall (46.187.2a): 29 1/2 x 40 in. (74.9 x 101.6 cm)
Overall (46.187.2b): 40 x 40 in. (101.6 x 101.6 cm)
Classification: Textiles-Costumes
Credit Line: Gift of Captain and Mrs. James Thach, 1946
Object Number: 46.187.2a, b
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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