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Description

Large white cover with embroidery. The cover is made from three cotton strips sewn together horizontally. The upper strip has five embroidered segments: two butterfly motifs, two squares with tree and floral motifs, one centre roundel with peach blossom and phoenix motifs. The centre strip has three roundels with phoenix, floral and fruit motifs separated by small vase, coin and floral motifs. The lower strip has four roundels with lotus, vase, phoenix, lion, fish, floral and fruit motifs, separated by small basket motifs. The ends are hemmed, the top edge is selvedge, the bottom edge has a facing strip. The back is unlined.

Iconographic Meaning

Taoist and Buddhist symbols of long life, fertility, happiness and good luck.

Cultural Context

utilitarian;household

History Of Use

Blue and white embroideries are part of an ancient domestic tradition. Designs vary geographically but are constant within generations of families except for minor individual variations. Often used to decorate the bed which traditionally played a focal part in household ritual particularly at the new year when all household spirits were honored. They are family made, by women, and family owned. These embroideries were of no local commercial value.