An exhibition showcasing the royal garments and accessories of China's imperial families kicks off in Britain on Tuesday. The show marks the collaboration between the Palace Museum of China and the Victoria and Albert Museum, and provides a rare opportunity for Britons to enjoy the exquisite royal garments of ancient China up close.

 

The show displays for the first time in Europe over 50 garments, 20 accessories and 15 fabrics worn by emperors and members of their royal family in the Qing Dynasty hundreds of years ago. The refined weaving techniques and elaborately chosen materials reflect the grandeur of China's royal courts.

All the exhibits are on loan from the collection of the Palace Museum of China, which is located in the Forbidden City, the former royal residence of the Qing Dynasty.

Apart from the exhibition, the Victoria and Albert Museum has also tailored a series of lectures and talks for the UK public to learn more about the ancient history and culture of China.

The exhibition runs at the Victoria and Albert Museum through the end of February.