235 - Unofficial women’s summer jacket made of dark blue silk embroidered with peonies, China, late 19th century

Unofficial women’s summer jacket made of dark blue silk embroidered with peonies, China, late 19th century This lightweight silk jacket is embroidered with blue silk threads depicting peonies, butterflies, orchids, and camellias. The edges of the garment are embellished with two decorative silk bands: one with a gray background embroidered with stylized motifs, and the other with a blue background embroidered with chrysanthemums, Taoist symbols, and auspicious motifs. These bands form a ruyi-head motif at the jacket’s side slits. The wide, straight sleeves are finished with gray satin bands embroidered with peonies, double gourds, birds, and butterflies. The lining is made of blue damask silk decorated with peonies and butterflies. Two applied buttons made of a copper alloy, depicting a ruyi and a swastika, fasten the jacket at the front. 112 x 160 cm Stains, tears.