Red Silk Robe Embroidered with Lotus and Butterfly Motifs

This robe was worn by Manchu women in the Qing Dynasty. The robe is silk and emboridered with lotus and butterfuly motif, while the collar and cuffs are decorated with needlework on black satin. Red garments like this one were worn by brides or young women. Middle-aged women wore purple, while elderly women wore dark blue. Flower motifs were common decorations. The Empress Dowager Cixi (1835-1908) was called "Lan'er" (meaning Orchid), and was given the title "Elegant Orchid" as the Emperor's concubine. Her affinity for orchids extended to her clothing, and during her reign, she alone could wear robes decorated with orchid motifs.