Woman's Sleeveless Jacket

Art Historical Context

This elegant sleeveless jacket, created in early 20th-century China, showcases the refined artistry of traditional Chinese textile production. Woven in silk tapestry known as kesi, the garment reflects a technique prized for its ability to produce intricate,ly designs through a discontinuousft method. The is a lightweight yet richly patterned piece that combines functionality with ornamental beauty, typical of women’s attire during the Republican era. Kesi weaving, often reserved for high-quality garments, highlights China’s long-standing mastery of silk craftsmanship. Its classification as both costume and tapestry underscores how such textiles served dual roles as wearable art and symbols of cultural identity. Donated to the Metropolitan Museum in 1945 by Florance Waterbury, this jacket invites viewers to appreciate the delicate balance of tradition and innovation in Chinese decorative arts at a time of social change.