Artwork Details
L: 64-1/2 in.
DynastyGift from the Collection of Sonia and Joseph M. Lesser
CopyrightCollection of Sonia and Joseph M. Lesser, New York, New York; given to the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, Indianapolis, Indiana in 1976.
Metallic threads are intricately interwoven with fine yellow silk threads to create a remarkable composition that symbolizes the unity of Earth and Heaven with the Chinese emperor. When the emperor wore the robe, he became the center of the universe, and the neck opening served as the gate to heaven.
This robe is adorned with nine five-clawed dragons, of which only eight are visible. Dragon was an ancient symbol of power, and it represented the emperor. At the bottom of the coat, water waves represent the universal oceans, while Earth is represented by the four angular rock formations, symbolizing the four main points of a compass. Yellow, the color that signified the emperor’s power over Earth, was reserved for the Son of Heaven and his descendants.
Exhibition Name
Venue
Dates
Symbols of Significance: Motifs in Chinese Art
Indianapolis Museum of Art at Columbus
July 22, 1989 - September 16, 1989
Fabrics in Celebration - From the Collection
Indianapolis Museum of Art
September 7, 1983 - October 23, 1983
Key Acquisitions Since 1970 Part I: Oriental, Ethnographic, Decorative Arts & Textiles
Indianapolis Museum of Art
September 2, 1980 - October 5, 1980
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