| Bixi | |||||||
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 Illustration of a bixi found in the Chinese encyclopedia Gujin Tushu Jicheng, section "Ceremonial Usages", between 1700 and 1725 AD. | |||||||
| Chinese name | |||||||
| Chinese | 蔽膝 | ||||||
| Literal meaning | Knee cover | ||||||
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| Alternative Chinese name | |||||||
| Chinese | 韍 | ||||||
| Literal meaning | Kneepad | ||||||
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| Korean name | |||||||
| Hangul | 폐슬 | ||||||
| Hanja | 蔽膝 | ||||||
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Bixi (Chinese:蔽膝;pinyin:bìxī;lit. 'Cover knee';Korean: 폐슬;Hanja: 蔽膝;RR: Pyeseul), also known asfu (Chinese:韍;lit. 'kneepad'),[1] is generic term which refers to a type of traditional Chinese decorative piece of fabric, which acts as aknee covering, inHanfu.[2] Thebixi originated inChina where it originated from the primitive clothing of the ancient; since then, it continued to be worn by both men and women,[3] and eventually became part of the Chinese ceremonial attire.[2] Thebixi was later introduced in Korea duringGoryeo andJoseon by the Ming dynasty, along with many garments for royalties.[4][5]
Thebixi originated from primitive clothing back when animal hides were used to replace foreskin and the genitals.[2]
During theShang dynasty, the basic style ofclothing for men and women consisted ofyichang andbixi.[6]
Among many other types of female clothing items, thebixi was listed in tomb inventories dating from 361 AD.[7]
In theMing dynasty, thebixibecame part of the official clothing.[3]
Thebixi is a length of fabric which is typically long enough to reach the kneel-level and cover the front legs when attached to the waist of its wearer.[citation needed]
A redbixi was worn as part of themianfu which was worn by the Chinese emperors.[2]
A crimsonbixi was worn as part of thetongtianguanfu.[8][9]
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Abixi was also worn with thediyi worn by Chinese empresses; thebixi worn in thediyi hanged in front of the garment and had the same colour as the bottom colour as thelower skirt.[10]
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