Peking Opera Robe

Theatrical Robe

29-96-160A

From: China

Curatorial Section: Asian

View All (9) Object Images

Object Number 29-96-160A
Current Location Collections Storage
Culture Chinese
Provenience China
Period Qing Dynasty
Date Made 19th Century
Section Asian
Materials Silk | Cotton | Gold Thread | Satin
Technique Embroidered
Iconography Official | Emperor
Description

Red satin dragon robe (mang pao 蟒袍) worn for the Peking Opera. Heavily embroidered with gold and multi-colored thread. Most likely for a male character, a high official or emperor. The heavy satin of this robe slowed down the movements of the actor who wore it, making him look elegant onstage.

Height 142 cm
Length 191 cm
Credit Line Bequest of Maxwell Sommerville, 1904

Report problems and issues to digitalmedia@pennmuseum.org.