Cantonese Opera Pillow Item Number: 2701/16 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Square cushion inside a silky synthetic pink fabric cover that has sequin decoarations and is edged in pleated fabric. The decorations represent lotuses, executed in dark pink, gold, and silver sequins. Cover has opening at back.

History Of Use

Beds appear frequently in Cantonese opera, represented by a narrow platform with a cover and bed-curtains, as well as sometimes with cushions or bolsters. They most often are used in scenes representing weddings, although the actors do no more than sit on the bed and are not shown lying down. During the years 1900-1930, Cantonese opera costumes and stage fittings 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. Silk bed sets in general predated those made of synthetic fabrics.

Cultural Context

Cantonese Opera Performance

Item History

What

Name
Cantonese Opera Pillow
Identification Number
2701/16
Type of Item
pillow
Material
synthetic fibre, plastic, dye and cotton fibre
Manufacturing Technique
sewn and painted
Overall
height 45.0 cm, width 44.0 cm, depth 8.0 cm

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
fair
Accession Number
2701/0016