Our friends at the Chinese culture-themed clothing brand Akufuncture just launched its sixth season, this time drawing inspiration from the historical Imperial Palace. The Fall/Winter 2011 collection features two new tees, the Guardian Lion and the Imperial Guard:
Guardian Lion
Guardian lions are a common representation of the lion in pre-modern China. They have traditionally stood in front of Chinese Imperial palaces, Imperial tombs, government offices, temples, and the homes of government officials and the wealthy, and were believed to have powerful mythic protective benefits.
Lions always come in pairs but since we can't fit two lions in one shirt, you get the male version stepping on a custom Akufuncture ball.
Imperial Guard
China. We are focusing on the Ming Dynasty's rendition, called Jin Yi Wei. They are not only the bodyguards but also the secret police of the Emperor.The new season also includes snap back hats and crewneck sweaters. To see all of the cool designs, both new and old, and to get yourself outfitted for fall, head over to the Akufuncture website here.
Jin Yi Wei wears a gold uniform called the Flying Fish, hence the shirt design. It strays from the typical uniform of other government officials to show the importance of the Imperial Guards.
