Emperor of China in his Robes in 1700

by Thomas Jefferys

This lovely engraving by Thomas Jefferys from the 18th century provides insight into the majestic Qing Dynasty through a European lens. As part of his famous ethnography series, this plate shows the Emperor of China wearing court clothes according to the custom of the year 1700. The print shows the elaborate layers worn by the emperor, as well as the distinct head gear and accessories worn in the Manchu court at the time.

Thomas Jefferys was a geographer to King George III who paid particular attention to the details of clothing around the world. This particular print serves as one of the most valuable historical documents, linking East and West through the traditions and aesthetics of the time.