Woman’s robe with butterflies
On this robe, scores of delightful butterflies flutter among longevity medallions. Since the word for “butterfly” in Chinese (die) is a homonym for “octogenarian,” the butterfly is a symbol of longevity. It is also usually an auspicious image associated with joy and weddings, and this robe might have been worn for such an occasion.
Artwork Details
- 清晚期 刺繡百蝶紋氅衣
- Title: Woman’s robe with butterflies
- Period: Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
- Date: late 19th century
- Culture: China
- Medium: Silk embroidery on silk satin
- Dimensions: Overall: 53 x 82 in. (134.6 x 208.3 cm)
- Classification: Costumes-Embroidered
- Credit Line: Gift of Mr. and Mrs. George F. Miller, 1970
- Object Number: 1970.145
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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