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Pair of Framed Fine Chinese Antique Embroidery Panels with Forbidden Knots

Offered by: Tishu

Description
A pair of framed antique Chinese embroidery textile panels circa 19th century of Qing Dynasty. Each piece features two mirror-matching panels (likely designated to be the sleeves), finely embroidered with colored threads and mounted in embroidered dark brocade borders and tastefully presented in carved faux-bamboo gilt frames. The frames are nearly identical in height at 21.5" inch, with one slightly wider than the other (one is 10.75 and the other is 11.25 inches).
The embroidery work is among the finest we have seen. Largely done with forbidden knots (a coined Chinese name due to the difficulty and potential damages it causes to the embroiderer's eyesight, also known as Beijing Knots) and long and short satin stiches and supplemented with chain stitches, the picture showcases pairs of flying butterflies with stylized large wings flanking opulent peony blossom. The body of the butterflies and peonies were executed entirely with forbidden knots, dense and tight, while the foliage was performed using satin stiches. The workmanship is superb, and the colorways are bright and abundant.
Butterflies, pairs in flight, allude to lovers in Chinese culture and folklore, rooted in the famous story of Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai, the two star-crossed lovers in ancient time, who turned into a pair of butterflies in afterlife. The motif was specifically used for wedding attires. Peonies, on the other hand, symbolized female beauty, good fortunate and prosperity.

More Information

Origin:	China
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	embroidered textile in wood frame
Condition:	Good. Frames are in antique finish and show only minor patina and wear. Textiles appear in fine condition, not examined out of the frames.
Creation Date:	late 19th century
Number of Pieces:	2-3
Styles / Movements:	Asian, Traditional
Patterns:	Asian/Oriental, Florals/Botanical, Geometric, Handmade
Incollect Reference #:	701087

Dimensions

W.	22 in;	H.	21.5 in;	D.	1 in;
W.	55.88 cm;	H.	54.61 cm;	D.	2.54 cm;

Message from Seller:

Our collection ranges from Neolithic Art to 20th century collectible art and design. It spans 5000 thousand years of history and crosses many civilizations and cultures. Our aesthetic strongholds are Mid-century studio design, Japanese and Korean art, Asian Textile Art and Contemporary Aboriginal Art. The diversity is united behind our singular vision to seek for timeless beauty and driven purely by our passion