Cantonese Opera Robe Item Number: 2701/9 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
A front-opening robe with very wide sleeves and a round neck. Robe is cream colour and decorated with copper and gold-coloured sequins in wavy patterns, except for the bottom of the robe and ends of the sleeves, on which the sleeves are decorated with angled straight lines of sequins. The robe has snap fastenings down the front, and slits at the sides. Stamped onto inside fabric lining of collar are two red squares filled with Chinese letters.
History Of Use
A robe of this type was worn in Cantonese opera to represent a wealthy person. During the years 1900-1930, Cantonese opera costumes were decorated with silver-plated brass discs and then with round mirrors, together with gold and silver thread. Sequins made of gelatin were first used on Cantonese opera costumes in the 1930s. Heavily-sequined costumes were popular in the 1950s-60s, with the sequins then being made of plastic. Sequins have continued to come and go in popularity since that time.
Cultural Context
Cantonese Opera Performance
Item History
- Made in Hong Kong, China during 1965
- Collected in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Owned by Ngai Lum Musical Society before April 21, 2008
- Received from Ngai Lum Musical Society (Donor) on April 21, 2008
What
Who
- Culture
- Chinese: Cantonese
- Previous Owner
- Ngai Lum Musical Society
- Received from
- Ngai Lum Musical Society (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Hong Kong, China
- Collected in
- Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
When
- Creation Date
- during 1965
- Ownership Date
- before April 21, 2008
- Acquisition Date
- on April 21, 2008
Other
- Item Classes
- textiles
- Condition
- good
- Accession Number
- 2701/0009