V&A

photos: nathalie hambro

The exhibition shows the sumptuous robes and accessories worn by the emperors and empresses of the Qing Dynasty, the last ruling dynasty of China (1644-1911). These costumes are on display for the first time in Europe and the exhibition is part of an exchange between the V&A and the Palace Museum in Beijing. Official, festive and travelling dress for rituals, celebrations, weddings and royal visits are on show as well as beautifully patterned fabrics created for the fashion-conscious court ladies.