This wax figure wears a General’s costume from the Golden Dragon Museum’s collection of processional regalia used in the Bendigo Easter Fair processions. It dates from the 1870s and was imported from China.

The military general led the Chinese Easter parade in 1879. This highly regarded position has beeen equally shared between by Chinese and European men. The Chinese in particular, considered it an honour to wear the costumes relating to the role of a high-ranking official. (Text taken from The 1880s Processional Regalia of the Bendigo Chinese Association, Golden Dragon Museum, 2010)

The Chinese arrived in Bendigo, Victoria, during the 1850s gold rush. In 1854, it was estimated that over 4,000 Chinese were on the gold fields. In 1871, the Chinese community joined the Bendigo Easter Fair and Procession (which began in 1869) to assist fundraising for charity. Providing music, theatre and acrobatic displays, the Chinese section of the Procession soon became the main attraction. This remarkable collection of 19th Century processional regalia has been preserved by the Chinese community in Bendigo and is held in the Golden Dragon Museum. It is not only a collection of world significance but, importantly, it contextualises and preserves the living heritage of both Victoria and China through the objects and through the ceremonies that continue to be practised today.

Further Information

Costume of the General of Military Forces