Woman's Long Pao (Formal Domestic Robe) Possibly 1644 - 1911

This Long Pao, or domestic robe, was likely made by Manchu artisans, though its precise date of creation remains unknown. Its vibrant decoration is achieved through embroidery, a labor-intensive process through which silk threads are applied to a woven ground. The fineness of the embroidery speaks volumes about the wearer's status, and the amount of work involved in the production process. The decoration on the robe features a variety of auspicious symbols including cranes, peaches and swirling clouds, each carefully stitched. Notice the evenness of the stitches, the neatness of the lines, and the precision of the imagery. These qualities would have been highly prized. Embroidery has a long and esteemed history in China, and the creation of garments like this would have involved skilled artisans, working within highly specialized workshops. By appreciating the technical skill and artistry of this robe, we can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural values and social hierarchies of the time. And we can see that something as everyday as a garment, can speak volumes.