Chinese hat knob
In Chinese culture during imperial times and before the end of the Qing Dynasty (ending in 1911), Chinese civil or military officials used a variety of codes to show their rank and position. One of the used codes was the use of a colorful hat knob fixed on the top of their hats. The specific hat knob on one's hat determined one's rank. As there were nine distinctive ranks, representing the position of the civil or military official, there were nine types of hat knobs.
See also
External links
- http://www.powerhousemuseum.com/hsc/evrev/chinese_dress.htm -- mentions hat knobs in formal court dress about half way down
- http://chinesefinials.wetpaint.com/ -- a site dedicated to Chinese hat knobs and finials!
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