Informal Chinese Robe

Republic era lady’s informal silk robe.  The body of the robe is embroidered with a bamboo motif, a traditional symbol of oriental beauty.  Bamboo or “zhu” is an auspicious symbol representing loyalty and resilience.  Bamboo will survive a storm and does not break.  The delicate silk juxtaposed with this symbol creates a striking metaphor.

The body of the robe is calf-length, with wide sleeves ending with bands.  It has front-opening and is fastened with toggle button closures.  The robe is embroidered with polychrome silk threads in satin stitch.  The cuffs and outer borders of the robe are embroidered on cream colored satin with sprays of flowers, butterflies, and birds.  Edged with black satin piping on the neckline, hem and the upper part of the sleeve.  Lined with pale celadon silk.