Ivory dragon robe, Cantonese opera costume

This ivory silk robe features wide sleeves, a side opening, and banded neck edge. The front and back of the robe are embroidered with dragon, wave, and flower motifs in multiple colours, ranging from gold, to pink, orange, and blue. The motifs are embellished with tin discs and coloured glass. Belt carriers located under the arms are red and stuff and the “wings” at the back are covered in embroidered red silk..

The dragon motif, banded neck, and "wings" at the back of this costume indicate it would have been worn by a male (sang) official character in Cantonese opera.

Edith Clark, proprietor of the Pagoda Shop at 528 Granville St., acquired the robe in China in 1927. Upon returning to Vancouver, she sold it to Elisabeth Rogers, a prominent Vancouver philanthropist, who then donated the robe to the Museum.