Pheasant Robe

original: "禕衣" (Yīyī). This is the premier ceremonial robe of the Empress, often categorized as a "Pheasant Robe" because of its distinctive bird motifs. It was worn for the most solemn rituals, such as the sacrifice to the imperial ancestors.

Key terms on this page: Ceremonial Dress (original: "禮服" lǐfú), Pheasant-Patterned Robe (original: "翟衣" zháiyī), Empress (original: "皇后" huánghòu).

Empress’s Ceremonial Regalia

original: "皇后冠服" (Huánghòu Guānfú). This term encompasses the entire set of formal garments and accessories worn by the Empress for the most solemn state occasions, such as ancestral sacrifices or grand court audiences.

The Nine-Dragon and Four-Phoenix Crown

original: "九龍四鳳冠" (Jiǔlóng sìfèng guān). In Chinese imperial iconography, the dragon represents the Emperor and the phoenix represents the Empress. The number of dragons and phoenixes indicated rank; nine dragons and four phoenixes were designated specifically for the Empress’s most formal crown.

The Tied Belt

original: "束帶" (Shùdài). This refers to the rigid ceremonial belt, often adorned with precious materials like jade or gold, worn over the outer robes to signify status and complete the silhouette of the imperial ensemble.