Mandarin Collar Yunjian - Late 19th Century - China

Yunjian collar (translation "shoulder of clouds") in silk and fabrics with decorations embroidered with polychrome threads representing characters in scenes of life, birds, flowers and insects. Traditionally made up of 4 lobes, this collar is placed around the neck: one lobe on each shoulder, one lobe on the chest and the last behind the neck. The garment collar has been known since the 6th century (Chinese Imperial Sui Dynasty). During the Song Dynasty (10th to 13th century), a cosmic symbol was perceived: the opening of the neck represents the entrance to the sky around the abundance symbolized by the cloud of fabrics and silk representing the scenes of the alive. However, it was used as a purely decorative garment during the last centuries of its use: From the 17th to the beginning of the 20th century, it became a popular garment and was worn exclusively by Chinese women during ceremonies (mainly weddings). Late 19th century. Dimensions: Maximum total diameter: 45 cm Neck diameter: approximately 10.5 cm. Slight rubbing wear on the edges of some lobes.