The China National Silk Museum in Hangzhou has opened Unveiling the Wardrobe of the Southern Song Dynasty, an exhibition examining daily life and dress during the period from 1127 to 1279.
Co-organised with Fujian Museum and Huangyan District Museum, the exhibition is structured in three sections covering identity, daily life and attire. It brings together 83 sets of artefacts from seven museums, including 15 first-grade cultural relics.
The display focuses on two historical figures, Zhao Boyun, a member of the imperial clan from Zhejiang, and Huang Sheng, a noblewoman from Fujian. Items recovered from their tombs include garments and personal objects that provide insight into social roles, textile production and everyday life during the Southern Song period.
Several artefacts are shown publicly for the first time, including a silk skirt with phoenix and peony motifs, a bracelet from Zhao Boyun’s tomb and ceremonial objects.
A related event, A Night of Southern Song Elegance, accompanied the opening, combining academic talks with performances such as classical dance, guqin music and a tea ceremony.
Two additional exhibitions, focusing on digital restoration of ceremonial attire and women’s garments in ancient China, are also on display.
For more information, visit China National Silk Museum.
