Woman's Ceremonial Ensemble: Robe, Skirt, and Sash

Currently not on view

Woman's Ceremonial Ensemble: Robe, Skirt, and Sash

1980-1990s

Choi Bok-hee (Korean, 1930–2007)

The making of hanbok (traditional Korean dress) presented Joseon dynasty (1392–1910) women with an opportunity to experiment with color, design, and embellishment. Specific colors and motifs indicated rank; here, the use of green and Chinese characters indicates that this ensemble is for a princess. Initially only royalty had access to elaborate clothing, but later in the dynasty commoners were permitted to wear such attire at their weddings. The gold stamp decoration, however, was reserved for the royal family. This contemporary reproduction was created by master seamstress Choi Bok-hee, but during the Joseon period it likely would have been made by a palace seamstress.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Woman's Ceremonial Ensemble: Robe, Skirt, and Sash
Woman's Ceremonial Outfit

Date:

1980-1990s

Artist:

Choi Bok-hee (Korean, 1930–2007)

Medium:

Robe: Green, red, blue, yellow, and white silk damask, gold stamp decorationSkirt: Red, blue, and white silk damask, gold stamp decorationSash: Red silk damask, gold stamp decoration

Dimensions:

Center Back Length (a: Robe): 65 inches (165.1 cm) Length (b: Skirt): 65 inches (165.1 cm) c: Sash: 12 feet 4 inches × 2 3/4 inches (375.9 × 7 cm)

Classification:

Costume (including accessories)

Credit Line:

Gift of Kang Collection, New York, 2010

Accession Number:

2010-4-1a--c

Geography:

Made in Korea, Asia

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Currently not on view