#yaopei

[junpeicindystories]

It's finished!!!

[ziseviolet]

What are those medallion type things that hang from the belt, particularly for men? I see them most prominently in Nirvana in Fire but can't figure out what they're called. Are they an accessory or a symbol of rank, particularly for princes?

Hi! Those medallion-type things hung from the belt that you’re referring to are a type of Yaopei/腰佩 (traditional Chinese waist ornament) called Jinbu/禁步. I have a post on Jinbu here - please check it out! 

Jinbu are worn by both men and women, and as accessories they can be worn by any social class, including commoners. However, they are also symbols of virtue and can signify different emblems of rank based on the design and materials. 

Hope this helps!

(Comparison of Yaopei in historical Chinese art and Cdrama Nirvana in Fire, Via)

[ziseviolet]

hi, do you know if was there something alike a purse to be used with hanfu? i heard people would put itens in their sleeves but was wondering what other means of carrying stuff on your person were there

Hi, thanks for the question! 

Yes - because Hanfu has no pockets, people would use a purse-like traditional Chinese accessory called Hebao/荷包 to carry money, personal seals, jewelry, and other odds and ends. A type of Yaopei/腰佩 (waist ornament), Hebao was usually fastened to the belt/sash. 

Hebao is made of various materials, including cotton cloth and silk fabrics. It comes in a variety of shapes, including: round, oval, square, rectangular, peach, pomegranate, etc. The patterns on it can be simple or intricate, featuring flowers, birds, beasts, insects, landscapes, people, auspicious words, poetry, etc. Hebao typically comes with tassels, and jade or pearls as ornaments.  

Hebao was worn not just for its utility, but also as a symbol of people’s aspiration for happiness, health, and fortune. One common type of Hebao was the perfume Hebao, which was filled with fragrant herbs, meant to ward off evil spirits and bring their carriers wealth and luck. 

The custom of wearing Hebao started before the Qin Dynasty (200 BC), and it was wide-spread as a precious ornament during the Tang dynasty. By the Qing dynasty, Hebao was carried every day by nobility and common people alike. Young men and women often used it as a token of love.

The wearing of Hebao continues to the modern day, especially as the Hanfu revival movement has brought it back into fashion as a versatile, practical, and stylish Hanfu accessory. 

Please see my Hebao tag for more resources. Hope this helps!

Sources/Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6