Rank Badges of Official Costumes of Ming and Qing Dynasties from the Perspective of Social Semiotics

Abstract

The official dress systems of Ming and Qing Dynasties were formulated by the rulers of those feudal societies to maintain their ruling status.As well as being a functional indication of the type and power of officials, the rank badge, Buzi or Bufu (补子, 补 服), on official clothes indirectly declared the elegant and brave characteristics of civil and military officers, and also reflected the philosophy of the unity and harmony between human and nature.Informed by social semiotics theory, the Buzi patterns embody the culture and arts of ancient Chinese clothing, producing novel meaning within corresponding social contexts, which can be inherited and developed in today's society.Moreover, the wearing of official unified clothes and rank badges by officials and civil servants should be encouraged since those persons often serve as a role model and are subject to public's scrutiny.Thus ancient Chinese culture and arts can flourish, a good social order and law be maintained, and a harmonious and civilized society built.

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