Linen, Wool and Embroidery, 53 x 28 inches, 134.6 x 71.1 cm
Price Code A Inventory #13095
This "Hundred-bird" coat is from the Yahui area of Danzhai county. The coat is wholly covered with embroidered figures chiefly modelled after butterflies, birds, dragon and phoenix, which are true to life and of primitive simplicity. The ends of the figured bands of the skirt are trimmed with feathers from chickens or wild turkeys. This is how the name "hundread-bird" coat comes from. This style of dress has a history of nearly a hundred years, but is seldom seen nowadays. It is used for festive occassions only.