Dragon Robes home page Portrait of Manchu Official and Wives

China Portrait of Manchu Official and Wives Ink and color on paper, Late 18th century-early 19th century Qing dynasty Image size: 50 1/4" (h) x 35 3/4" (w), overall: 68" x 40 3/8" Museum purchase 1939:94

After 1759, all Manchu court officials were required to wear a surcoat over their robes bearing the insignia badges of their rank. The wives of court officials were permitted to wear their husband’s insignia badge on special occasions. The silver pheasant signifies a fifth-rank civil official.

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