Since the beginning of civilization humans have sought to adorn themselves, and the Chinese were no exception. Inspired by the beauty and variety of the birds and animals around them, they sought from the very earliest times to emulate these seemingly perfect creatures, first by adorning themselves with their pelts and plumes and then, with increasing sophistication, by using these to embellish their clothes and accessories. By the Qing dynasty highly-stylised forms had evolved in line with the existing social and political hierarchy and the strict almanac devised by the ruling Manchus decreeing what could be worn, when, and by whom. The elaborate hairstyles of the day were no exception, and what started as an art form lead to a thriving industry and eventually the extinction of an entire species.
This lecture explores the origins of Qing dynasty jewellery and hair accessories and their use against the social, philosophical and historical influences of the times.
Dr Sheena BurnellDr Sheena Burnell is an Australian-trained anaesthesiologist currently living and working in Shanghai. From an early age she has been drawn to Asia and the exquisite beauty of Asian art forms, and began collecting Japanese woodblock prints as an initial foray into this area. She subsequently developed her interest to include Chinese and Tibetan art and in particular Chinese textiles and embroidery. This further developed into a fascination with Chinese costume and dress accessories, particularly bound feet shoes and the extraordinary social history they embodied. Subsequently her interest in the area expanded to encompass Qing Dynasty kingfisher hair ornaments and more esoteric aspects of Chinese costume including theatre and post-Qing costume. Dr Burnell has been invited to lecture on these collections both in Australia and Hong Kong as well as appearing on Australian television. Her current collecting interests are ethnic Chinese tribal jewelry and Tibetan gau boxes.
Priority for RAS members. Those unable to make the donation but wishing to attend may contact us for exemption.MEMBERSHIP applications and membership renewals will be available at this event.RAS MONOGRAPHS - Series 1 & 2 will be available for sale at this event. 100 rmb each (cash sale only)