Woman's Robe of State

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Known as chaopao, women's formal or state robes characteristically include an L-shaped seam between the collar and underarm fastenings that were most likely used to attach a long sleeveless coat over the garment.. This robe also features an attached collar, making it a complete set. Surviving examples of women's formal court robes are rare: not many were made, as women were not often included in court ceremonies. The unusual orange-yellow of the robe further indicates its high status. The original color, still well preserved inside, resembles that of a ripe apricot, a color designated only for the crown prince and his consorts.

Asian Art

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Met's collection of Asian art—more than 35,000 objects, ranging in date from the third millennium B.C. to the twenty-first century—is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world. Each of the many civilizations of Asia is represented by outstanding works, providing an unrivaled experience of the artistic traditions of nearly half the world.

Metropolitan Museum of Art