The hat is composed of six sewn-together segments, with an attached brim that is like a cylinder. It is black in color and made of sesame-patterned gauze. This kind of hat, due to its multi-segmented shape which is somewhat similar to the rind of a watermelon, is jokingly called the « watermelon rind hat » among the common people. It is said that it follows the Liuhe Hat (hat symbolizing the unity of the six directions) made by Emperor Taizu of the Ming Dynasty. It was created during 1368-1398, taking the auspicious implication of the unity of the whole country. According to the design requirements, beads, colored threads and other decorative materials are used to decorate the hat. One red bead is inlaid on the top, to make the hat more delicate and beautiful.

Date of Production: Qing dynasty (1644-1911)

Dimension: Diameter: 17.6 cm；H: 10 cm

Place of Design: China

Gauze, beading

Access number: 1559

Museum: China National Silk Museum