Oct 27, 2010
Oct 27, 2010
Oct 27, 2010
Oct 27, 2010

Bride's Robe

Bride's Robe

혼례복 (闊衣)

1700s

Silk and paper with silk embroidered

Overall: 116.9 x 177.8 cm (46 x 70 in.)

The Worcester R. Warner Collection 1918.550

Location

Did you know?

This gown was not made for one specific bride, but rather was be shared and passed down to many brides.

Description

This wedding gown is exquisitely embroidered with various symbols of happiness in colorful silk threads. Butterflies stand for marital happiness; the phoenix, numerous offspring; and lotus flowers and white cranes, longevity. Yet, the bridal gown does not attest to the life of luxury. To the contrary, many traces of repairs, trimmings, and patchwork reflect Joseon-period women’s commitment to value aesthetics of frugality and modesty.

Substantial repairs and patching reveal that this gown served as an important communal resource to be shared and passed down through several generations. Only its collar and sleeves, which are made of thick paper, are replaced with new ones, while the robe was reused for decades.

See also
Collection: 
Textiles
Department: 
Textiles
Type of artwork: 
Garment

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