Early 20th Century China: Tradition to Turmoil

 1911 saw the end of the Qing Dynasty and the imperial system, but not the end of tradition in China. In the visual realm, guardian figures were mounted outside doorways each New Year to protect the home from misfortune. Images of small children and auspicious flowers, thought to bring good luck, were displayed inside. Traditional China was a colorful place, as seen in the embroidered woman’s wedding day jacket. Red embodies hope and rebirth, gold symbolizes wealth, and the Chinese character for “double happiness” is placed front and center.

Door Guardian Anonymous Woodblock print, n.d.	Door Guardian Anonymous Woodblock print, n.d.	Framed Auspicious Symbols “Nianhua” Anonymous Woodblock Print, n.d.
New Year Print Anonymous Ink and color on paper, n.d.	New Year Print Anonymous Ink and color on paper, n.d.	Traditional Bridal Jacket Silk with gold thread Qing Dynasty