Wearable Blessings: Traditional Chinese Children's Clothing

Hong Kong Heritage Museum
1/F Thematic Gallery 5
18 December 2015 - 21 March 2016

Jointly presented by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department and
The Memorial Museum of Generalissimo Sun Yat-sen's Mansion
Organised by the Hong Kong Heritage Museum
Supported by the Institute of Textiles & Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

The birth of a child is one of the most important events in traditional Chinese society. Even today, all families hope that their children will stay healthy as they grow up, but in times when medical science was far less advanced, child mortality rates were very high. To give children blessings and protection, the older generation would dress them in clothes and accessories with auspicious patterns that it was believed repelled evil spirits and that expressed the wish for good health and good fortune.

This exhibition will present more than 200 items/sets of children's clothing, including hats, clothes, bibs, dudou (an undergarment covering the belly), waistcoats, shoes and boots, longevity locks and accessories, dating from the late Qing dynasty to the Republican period. Children's clothing and accessories can often be interpreted as a projection of the expectations adults have for them. The auspicious patterns on the children's clothing and accessories not only reflect the fashion trends of their times, but also shed light on the traditional Chinese culture that embraces blessings. At the same time, the exhibition will showcase children's wear designed by the Institute of Textiles & Clothing of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, that incorporate traditional auspicious patterns in their designs using modern styles and craftsmanship to give visitors new insights into Chinese children's wear.

 

Exhibit Highlights

Winter cap with phoenix finial Late 19th century Naidongtang Collection

Cap with boy and lotus motifs 1930s Collection of the Hong Kong Heritage Museum

Jumpsuit embroidered with flowers and birds 1900s to 1940s Naidongtang Collection

Split pants with wealth and longevity motifs 1900s to 1940s Naidongtang Collection

Jacket-and-trousers suit with the Three Star Gods 1950s to 1960s Naidongtang Collection

'Hundred household' waistcoat 19th century Naidongtang Collection

Dudou- apron with figures and dragons 20th century Naidongtang Collection

Earmuffs with Chinese calligraphy 19th century Naidongtang Collection

Bib collar of tiger shape Late 19th century Collection of the Memorial Museum of Generalissimo Sun Yat-sen's Mansion

Padded cloak with hood and dragon motifs Late 19th century to early 20th century Collection of the Memorial Museum of Generalissimo Sun Yat-sen's Mansion

Soft shoes with pomegranate motifs Late 19th century to early 20th century Naidongtang Collection