Object number
8201.1.23
Description
A pair of Tai Ping boots with thick platform soles, made of light blue silk. The leg of each boot decorated with confronting five-clawed dragons, in gold wrapped thread, chasing flaming pearls amongst blue and green clouds and accompanied by red bats, emblems of joy, and flowering peony branches above waves which support ruyi sceptres (emblems of power and good fortune) and rhinoceros’ horns, emblems of wealth. The foot and platform of each boot similarly worked with running dragons and lotus flowers. Each thin leather sole sewn in place with long running stitches and small holding stitches. The boots lined with a mid-blue silk damask.
The boots made for theatrical wear.
Chinese, Tongzhi period, 1856-1875
Production place
China
Date
1856 - 1875
Production period
Tongzhi, 1856-1875
Dimensions
- Height: 405 mm
- Width: 270 mm