Bixi (
Chinese: 蔽膝;
pinyin: bìxī;
lit. 'Cover knee';
Korean: 폐슬;
Hanja: 蔽膝;
RR: Pyeseul), also known as fu (
Chinese: 韍;
lit. 'kneepad'),[1] is generic term which refers to a type of traditional Chinese decorative piece of fabric, which acts as a
knee covering, in Hanfu.[2] The bixi originated in
China 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] The bixi was later introduced in Korea during
Goryeo and
Joseon by the Ming dynasty, along with many garments for royalties.[4][5]
History
The bixi originated from primitive clothing back when animal hides were used to cover the abdomen and the genitals.[2]
Among many other types of female clothing items, the bixi was listed in tomb inventories dating from 361 AD.[7]
In the
Ming dynasty, the bixibecame part of the official clothing.[3]
Construction and design
The bixi 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]
Usage
Male clothing attire
A red bixi was worn as part of the mianfu which was worn by the Chinese emperors.[2]
Emperor Xuanzu of Song wearing tongtianguanfu with a crimson bixi.
Female clothing attire
A bixi was also worn with the diyi worn by Chinese empresses; the bixi worn in the diyi hanged in front of the garment and had the same colour as the bottom colour as the
lower skirt.[10]