Baby Carrier
ClassificationsClothing and Adornments-baby carriers
Culture
Miao
Datemid to late 20th Century
Made AtGuizhou Province, China
Collection SiteChina
MediumCotton and silk
Dimensions28 1/2 × 97 in. (72.4 × 246.4 cm)
Credit LineGift of Mr. and Mrs. Long Shung and Anne Shih
Object number2015.9.32
DescriptionMiao baby carriers are symbolic of the love and care a mother has for her child. Baby carriers require a great deal of time and attention to make as well as a well-developed skill in embroidery. They are normally made by girls prior to marriage, but can also be made by family members of a bride and presented to a new mother and father after a baby is one month old. The main motif seen on this carrier is the butterfly. The butterfly is a commonly used motif in Miao textiles. The butterfly figures quite prominently in the Miao’s creation myths as it is the butterfly mother who created humans. Placing a butterfly motif on baby carriers ensures good luck and health for the baby as well as fertility for women and prosperity for families.On View
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