Chinese Zhuang Ceremonial Outfit, Early 20th Century: Cotton, natural indigo-dye. Size: Jacket 22'' x 60'' (56 x 152 cm). Skirt: 31'' x 24'' (79 x 61 cm). This striking ceremonial ensemble hails from the southwestern regions of China and consists of a long-sleeved jacket paired with a pleated skirt. The jacket features a band collar adorned with a vivid polychrome braiding. It boasts a unique flower-shaped buckle closure, complemented by intricate filigree buttons and loop closures, all adorned with silver metal domes impressed with delicate flower heads. The long sleeves are not only tapered but also skillfully decorated using a tie-dye technique. Narrow cuffs in deep blue are further embellished with banded trim, while the jacket's bottom hem forms a graceful demi-lune curve. Matching this exquisite jacket is a skirt with a yoke adorned with gauged gathers, meticulously set into a deep blue indigo waistband. This waistband is pieced together with a pleated circle skirt, and it features a cotton indigo lining. An intriguing aspect of this outfit is the glazing of the cotton, achieved by coating it with a mixture of pig's blood or egg white.

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