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This information was automatically generated from data provided by MOA: University of British Columbia. It has been standardized to aid in finding and grouping information within the RRN. Accuracy and meaning should be verified from the Data Source tab.

Description

A blouse of white synthetic fabric with silver and purple ornamentation that together with a skirt (2701/4 b) forms a costume. The blouse has long, wide sleeves with long white sleeve extensions, a round neckline and closes down the back with metal snap fasteners. Scattered over the surface are clusters of silver sequins in a tendril pattern. There are bands of purple and silver sequins in a pattern of irregular interlocking circles near the ends of the sleevest and a line of sequins at the hem.

History Of Use

This costume would have been worn by an actress representing a young woman of ordinary rank. Although men played female roles in the early 20th century, by the 1960s female roles were played only by women, with the exception of role types representing old women. 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.

Iconographic Meaning

The rank of the character is indicated by the relative simplicity of the costume.

Cultural Context

Cantonese Opera Performance

Item History

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