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Framed Chinese Antique Embroidery Silk Collar Qing Dynasty

Offered by: Tishu

Description
A silk collar from China dated to Qing Dynasty circa 19th century. Known as Yunjian (Cloud Shoulder or Cloud Collar), this multi-lobed textile piece was a detachable collar worn around the shoulders as part of the traditional Chinese garment accessory. With its origin dated back to the Han Dynasty and being used until the end of Qing Dynasty, the form evolves with time, but much of the ornamentation and fundamental symbolism remains the same.
This example features a four-tiered design in a soft blue-purple-pink color palette. The elongated petals extend from the center in the shape of auspicious "ruyi" that represents the head of Lingzhi mushroom, a symbol of longevity. Two tiers morphed into the butterfly form. The surface was decorated with delicate embroidery work of floral design with long and short satin stitches. The border was ornamented with chain stitches in gold metallic threads. Small dark agate beads were strung along the strings that link the piece together and most of them still remain. The piece was beautifully presented in a comforting mat with gilt border and a gilt wood frame for display.
In Qing Dynasty, the silk collar with high quality was worn by noble or aristocratic women. The red color and the lotus boy symbol indicate that it was most likely part of the fashion accouterment worn during wedding ceremony.
Reference: For a collection of Chinese embroidered collars, see page 736-745 of book "Imperial Silks Ch'ing Dynasty Textile in the Minneapolis Institute of Arts".

More Information

Origin:	China
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	silk, beads, wood
Condition:	Good. Appears in fine antique textile condition with minor wear such as thinning and loose threads on the edge and a few beads missing, revealing its antique nature. Not examined out of the frame. Frame with light wear.
Creation Date:	19th century
Styles / Movements:	Modern, Asian
Patterns:	Asian/Oriental, Geometric, Handmade
Incollect Reference #:	823429

Dimensions

W.	31 in;	H.	31 in;	D.	1 in;
W.	78.74 cm;	H.	78.74 cm;	D.	2.54 cm;

Message from Seller:

Tishu, based in Atlanta, GA, offers a diverse collection ranging from Neolithic art to 20th-century collectibles, with a focus on Mid-century design, Japanese and Korean art, Asian textiles, and Contemporary Aboriginal art. Driven by a passion for timeless beauty, the gallery is open by appointment only and offers works that span 5,000 years of history. Reach them at 305-400-0561 or tishu@tishugallery.com.