Man's Opera Robe
Date1920's
Place of ManufactureAsia
MediumMaterial: silk; mirrors; peacock feathers; gold thread
DimensionsOverall (ht=neck to bottom of robe; wi: measured across sleeves): 190.5 x 128 cm
ClassificationsDECORATIVE ART
Credit LineGift of Mrs. J.S.C. Moffitt
Object number1986.003.001
DescriptionThe style of the colourful reversible MAN'S OPERA ROBE has a legendary origin connected with constellations in astromony. The story is as follows: A certain man by the name of "Dong Wing" was so poor that when his father died he had to sell himself into service in order to procure money to bury his father. This act of filial piety reached Heaven and was most keenly felt by the Constellation of Seven Heavenly Sisters (a group of stars) - particularly the 7th and youngest sister who asked and received permission from the God of Heaven (Jade Emperor) to descent to the earth as a human being in order to help poor "Dong Wing" out of his difficulties on earth. The beautiful sister came, and - to cut the story short - married the hapless man. She helped him to gain material wealth and also gave birth to a lovely child. They were very much in love and happy. However, her leave from Heaven expired and the God of Heaven sent her word to return or else be forever banished. The evening of departure was very sad indeed. The other 6 sisters came down to earth to accompany the young sister back to Heaven. A banquet was held and, to put some gaiety into the party, the 7 sisters performed a dance wearing this sstyle of dress. As they danced around, the robes were reversed to give each of the 7 sisters a quick change of costume.Status
Not on view
