The wedding headdress known as the “phoenix tiara” was donned by the women of the Han ethnic group on the occasion of their wedding, as well as for the most formal occasions –, thus we often find them represented in portraits of ancestors.
The decor of these headdresses avails of an over 2000 years-old technique that inlays feathers of a starling known as diancui. Today the starling is a protected species and using its feathers is prohibited.
This headdress is outstanding for the abundance and quality of its décor – partly articulated –: its characteristics and motifs contribute to the expression of good luck wishes. It features seven phoenixes (their body heightened by a cabochon gem), five dragons wandering amidst the clouds, and two personages with mobile heads placed on each side of a central medallion. The crown is topped by six characters, each one represented in a flamed medallion on a mirror background (the Sun and the Moon, as well as a good luck formula).
In the background two cranes topped by the character expressing longevity uphold an ornament in the shape of a bat placed level with the occiput. Last, the two long pendants falling over the shoulders are each enhanced by four characters forming the following inscription: "A happiness similar to the Sea of the West and a longevity comparable to the Mountains of the South."
Donation of the SAMG (Society of the Friends of the Guimet Museum)
ClassificationFinery
MediumGilded cardboard and metallic thread, inlay of kingfisher feathers, silk pompons, mirrors, quartz, pearls, glass cabochons and coton threads
Dimensions54 cm
Accession numberMA 12812
Region or fieldChina
AcquisitionFormer François Bertin Collection (1891-1964), donation of the SAMG, 2016
