Uniform

Function Armour, or “uniform” for a Manchu military commander during the Qing (Manchu) dynasty. Originally designed for riding its cut in many ways reflect this, foremost in its open back. The sleeves have been given the shape of horseshoes revealing this equestrian background. The armour worn by military officials was adorned with studs and all kinds of exquisitely embroidered designs of almost three dimensional character showing dragons and other mythical animals, meant to indicate the wearer’s rank. It was equipped with shoulder plates, armpit plates and chest plates, which were attached to the armour with the help of buttons. Evidently the armour had little protective potential in modern warfare, though still worn in action. Its appearance was more to display military insignia and they appear to mirror traditional military interest in flair and concern with the display of rank and status. In some ways these late Qing dynasty armours border to Chinese theatrical costumes, though they might have been more inspired by the armours worn during the Tang dynasty, which were surely more of the protective kind. The costume also has a helmet. Acquisition Acquired by Thorild Wulff (1877-1917) in 1912 during a few months (August to December) of collecting in China. Accessed by the Museum of Ethnography, Stockholm in 1915. Why this is a masterpieceThe present armour has been chosen as just one example from the large collections of Chinese textiles that the museum houses. They are often stunning to look at with intricate designs and skilfully executed ornaments.History of the ObjectThe history of the object before Mr. Thorild Wulff (1877-1917) in 1912 acquired the objects on behalf of the Museum of Ethnography is not known. In 1915. it was brought into the care of the Museum of Ethnography. This particular armour does not display any clear sign of having been worn. (Virtual Collection of Masterpieces, http://masterpieces.asemus.museum/Default.aspx)