19th Century Japanese Men's Embroidered Silk Changshan. A dominant lush red with repeating flower medallions throughout and brass ball buttons from the neck down the right side. 

Provenance: Originally a gift passed along from the Japanese to a German doctor who was in Japan in 1906 in support of their navy. During World War II this was gifted to the consignors mother in exchange for care packages sent for those in need after the war. The consignor was told the value was closer to $15,000 from a local collector that had several pieces of similar quality. 

Condition: Minor fraying to embroidery and a burn hole. 

Size: 49 x 31 in. 

The changshan (also known as changpao or dagua) is a traditional Chinese long robe for men that originated during the Qing dynasty as a modified blend of Ming dynasty Hanfu and Manchu male attire. Unlike the equestrian-focused Manchu neitao, which featured four slits and horse-hoof cuffs, the Han-adapted changshan incorporated a curved collar and side fastenings while maintaining longer sleeves and only two side slits. Functional as the male equivalent of the female cheongsam, it was frequently paired with a magua (riding jacket) or Western overcoats and fedoras during the early 20th Century to signify East Asian modernity. Following the 1949 Communist Revolution, the garment was largely supplanted in mainland China by the Zhongshan suit, though it remained popular among Shanghainese emigrants in Hong Kong. Today, the changshan has experienced a cultural revival, serving as stylish formal attire for Chinese celebrations, weddings, performance arts like xiangsheng, and traditional burial ceremonies.

Minor fraying to embroidery and a burn hole. 

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