Summer Silk: Qing Dynasty Robes and Signs of the Season

This installation includes two summer silk gauze robes, one created for a man and the other for a woman, and a silk-thread embroidered summer panel of Birds and Flowers of the Four Seasons.

The Manchu Style Semi-Formal Summer Court Dragon Robe (Longpao) was created for a male member of the imperial family or a high-ranking Qing dynasty official to wear while engaged in official duties in the palace. The midnight blue Han Style Aristocratic Ladies’ Semi-Formal Summer Surcoat (Waitao) was created for a Qing dynasty aristocratic lady to wear when attending a celebratory gathering or when receiving guests. In addition to the robes, the selected panel of Birds and Flowers of the Four Seasons shows a summer garden scene that conveys layered meanings for the viewer.

Holiday Hours Alert

The Norton will not be hosting Art After Dark this week in observance of the holiday.

However, we will be open during the day on Friday, July 4, from 10 am until 5 pm, making it perfect for a relaxing visit before your evening plans. Our regularly scheduled programming of tours, art activities, and more will return next Friday as usual.

Wishing everyone a safe and enjoyable Independence Day!