Valance

Item number Edz1252 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.

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Description

Embroidered white cotton valance has centre scene flanked by two identical medallions, surrounded by flowers, fruit, butterflies, vases, containers, mystic symbols. Centre scene contains dragon gate topped by plant in vase enclosed in rayed octagon which is capped by small symbol, all surrounded above by facing dragons, clouds and below by facing phoenixes . Gate holds crosses, swastikas, rosettes, tassels, birds, fishes, plants. Identical flanking medallions show a chi-lin, above it a human figure, cross on centre body, holding in one hand small human figure, in other, a flag; below, four mystic symbols, clouds surround. Edge: three-sided border, reversing flower, vine motifs. Long side, selvage; short sides, raw.

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.

Iconographic Meaning

Dragon gate, dragon, fish denote successful graduation or career, or many children; phoenix, peace and prosperity; clouds, beneficial rain and fertility; octagon and cross, cosmic symbols; swastika - Buddha's heart, supreme good luck symbol, used in special places. Chi-lin denotes birth, scholarship; four symbols with ribbon, Buddhist charms; lotus flowers, faithfulness; butterfly, joy and true love; peach, marriage, immortality, long life; Buddha's hand, wealth, divine protection; pear, longevity; coin with ribbon, wealth; vase, perpetual harmony; dish of flowers, beauty and harmony.

Cultural Context

utilitarian;household

Item History

Made in Chengdu, Sichuan, China before 1945
Collected between 1932 and 1945
Owned by Kathleen F. Spooner before April 25, 1979
Received from Kathleen F. Spooner (Seller) and Museum of Anthropology Donations Fund (Funding source) on April 25, 1979