Robe (Jifu)

ClassificationsClothing and Adornments-principal attire (upper body)

Date1644-1911

Made AtChina, Asia

MediumSilk and gold thread

Dimensions56 × 91 in. (142.2 × 231.1 cm)

Credit LineAnonymous Gift

Object number2015.24.1

DescriptionDragon Robes were very commonly worn during the Qing Dynasty by members of the imperial court for semi-form occasions or official business. This type of robe is known as jifu or long pao, which means, “auspicious robes.” The dynasty had a very strict and highly regulated dress code which dictated what types of clothes could be worn at specific times of the year and at specific events. The colors and designs that could be used on clothing were also strictly regulated. Common motifs include cloud patterns, stylized mountains and lishui, the diagonal stripes seen at the bottom of this robe. These stripes are embroidered in 5 colors and represent deep standing water. Each robe features slits at the center seams at the front and back hems to make riding horses easier. Dragon Robes were belted when worn and purses that contained daily necessities hung from girdles. Brown robes were typically worn by imperial princes, dukes and non-imperial members of the court.

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