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Iconographic Meaning

Fungus, longevity. Chrysanthemum; laughter, ease, autumn. Pear; purity, justice. Butterfly; joy, marital felicity, summer. Jewel, pure intention, genius. Deer, longevity. Cassia, immortality. Lozenge, victory.

Description

Long, rectangular, brocade valance of light blue fabric and indigo detailing. The design consists of five different floral motifs separated by six pairs of smaller motifs. The centre design has a tree trunk bearing branches with flowers, leaves and buds, as well as a fence section and plants. The left inner motif: broad base with chrysanthemum, leaves, buds. Left outer motif: tree with fruit, leaves, bird, flower at base. Right inner motif: two flowers on curved stem from broad base, leaves, buds. Right outer motif: pear blossoms, leaves, buds, insect, flower at base. Dividing motifs consist of flowers, butterflies; blossoms, jewels; deer with cassia spray and lozenge. Border series of plant and insect designs with no regular repetition. Hemmed on sides edges and bottom.

Cultural Context

utilitarian;household

History Of Use

Blue and white embroideries are part of a long 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.