military officer's epaulet (one of a pair), unknown maker from China

Archive Label 2003:
A military dress uniform for important state ceremonies, this costume was modeled after armor worn by officers in the field. By the 18th century, with the increasing use of firearms and cannon in warfare, armor became more and more obsolete, and even field armor was made of lighter materials without any metal plate. Remnants of earlier protective armor can be seen here in the gilded metal studs that cover this piece and the small gilded disc worn at the center of the chest and back known as the ‘heart-protecting mirror.’ The golden-yellow color, interlocking ‘y’-shaped brocade, costly materials, and fine handiwork all indicate that this armor may have been worn by a high-ranking prince.