Empress Cixi was one of the most influential figures of the late Qing Dynasty. She ruled the empire for over 47 years, effectively controlling the country's political life. In addition to her political role, Cixi was a symbol of cultural and aesthetic ideals, which were reflected in her accessories.
One such item is the ceremonial headdress, which is now part of the collection of the Walters Art Museum.
Empress Cixi's ceremonial headdress was made of many precious materials, which gave it a special status. The base was an intricate structure of wire covered in silk, on top of which elements of gilded silver were attached.
Pearls and precious stones were also used for decoration, which symbolized wealth and power. Pearls in Chinese culture were associated with purity and perfection, and precious stones with eternity and timeless beauty.
The Empress Cixi's headdress was not just an accessory; it was a symbol of her power and status. In Chinese tradition, headdresses played a key role in expressing social status.
Among the Walters' collection of Asian art, Japanese armor and weapons, Chinese and Japanese porcelain, lacquerware and metalwork are especially noteworthy. The museum houses the largest and finest collection of Thai bronzes, scrolls and flags in the world.
The ceremonial headdress of Empress Cixi is a luxurious accessory that embodies the cultural and spiritual values of the late Qing Dynasty. It symbolized the empress's power, wealth and grace, her ability to combine political wisdom with refined aesthetic taste.
art.thewalters.org
Source: art.thewalters.org
