Valance

early 18th century
Not on view
Qing dynasty (1644–1911), early 18th century Silk and metallic thread embroidery on silk satin Birds, flowers, and pomegranates flank an exuberant and prolific peach tree at the center of this embroidered valance, which is imbued with themes of fertility and longevity. Below the tree is a stream in which floats an imposing golden bell, antique in form, accompanied by a halberd and a musical stone, two items that form the rebus for a celebratory occasion.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Valance
  • Period: Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
  • Date: early 18th century
  • Culture: China
  • Medium: Silk, metallic thread; on silk
  • Dimensions: 24 x 121 in. (60.96 x 307.34 cm)
  • Classification: Textiles-Embroidered
  • Credit Line: Gift of Miss F. Ethel Wickham, 1949
  • Object Number: 49.81
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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