Wonsam was a ceremonial robe worn by all female royals, and it was made in various colors to distinguish the wearer’s status: yellow for empresses, red for queens, purple for crown princesses and green for princesses. For women of common status, wearing such a robe was allowed just once in their life, namely on their wedding day.

The wonsam was worn over three layers of tops – an undershirt, an inner-jacket and a jacket with decorative patches – and two layers of skirts – a red skirt with double rows of gilt patterns over an indigo skirt of the same type.

This red ceremonial robe belonged to the consort of the last crown prince of Joseon, Imperial Prince Yeong. It features cloud and phoenix patterns woven into the fabric with gold thread, and dragon insignias on the chest, back and shoulders. The circular insignias are embroidered with clouds and symbols of long life.