This black satin autumn/winter hat with stiff brim has a fine twisted red silk tassel and a gilt-metal button signifying an official of the seventh, eighth or ninth rank. Both kinds of official hats – summer and winter were worn during the Qing dynasty (1644-1911). Regulations governing court dress for the imperial family and government officials in China at this time was to distinguish them from the general public. Hats formed an important part of this official court attire.
