This is a five layered cape with tie like hangings worn by the page girl as part of the wedding ceremony. The cape consists of small embroidered flaps which overlap one another and is meant to represent the neck feathers of the phoenix. The phoenix represents the bride as the Empress for that day. The motifs on this cape include peony blossoms, phoenix and Chinese figurines. Four pieces of embroidered strips which resemble neck ties are pinned to the cape, two in the front and two at the back. These have tassels at their V-shaped ends. The motifs on these strips include Chinese figurines, dragons, peonies and ‘qilin’ (hooved Chinese mythical creature). Also hanging from the cape is a coloured braid of intricate knots at intervals and ending in one long tassel. There are various auspicious motifs on this garment. The phoenix represents high virtue while the dragon is a symbol of security and good fortune. Peonies symbolised wealth and prosperity while the ‘qilin’ represented good fortune and was believed to be a bringer of sons.
