An exhibition exploring daily life and attire during China’s Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279) commenced on the afternoon of March 27 at the China National Silk Museum in Hangzhou. Titled *Unveiling the Wardrobe of the Southern Song Dynasty*, the display reconstructs the lives of two historical figures through rare textiles and artifacts.
Co-organized by the Fujian Museum, Huangyan District Museum, and the China National Silk Museum, the exhibition is structured into three sections: “Who Are They?”, “Their Daily Life,” and “Their Attire.” It features 83 artifact sets contributed by seven different museums, with 15 of these objects classified as first-grade cultural relics.
Among the highlights, several artifacts are making their public debut. These include a compound incense disk featuring a chi (hornless dragon) motif, a plain wooden tablet used in ancient court ceremonies, a bracelet discovered in the tomb of Zhao Boyun, and a pleated luo silk skirt adorned with paired phoenixes and peonies, originating from the tomb of Huang Sheng.
The exhibition centers on two individuals from the Southern Song period: Zhao Boyun, a member of the imperial clan from Zhejiang, and Huang Sheng, a noblewoman from Fujian. Archaeological excavations of their tombs uncovered remarkably well-preserved garments and accessories, considered significant textile discoveries from the Song dynasty. Through these silk costumes and everyday items, the exhibition aims to illustrate their lives, offering insights into social identity, daily practices, and textile production of the era.
Later that evening, a cultural event named A Night of Southern Song Elegance was presented. This program combined expert discussions on Song dynasty ceremonial dress, daily life, and textile craftsmanship with live traditional performances. Attendees experienced classical dance, guqin music, and a Song-style tea ceremony, accompanied by academic commentary.
Two additional exhibitions also opened concurrently: Digital Restoration of Song Dynasty Ceremonial Attire and Women’s Inner Garments in Ancient China. These combined presentations, including the immersive evening events, offer a comprehensive view of the Southern Song period, connecting historical materials with contemporary interpretative methods while emphasizing silk’s enduring cultural legacy and its historical ties to the Silk Road.
Source: Original
