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Cultural Context

utilitarian;household

Description

Plain grey valance with blue embroidery. Six medallions separated by pairs of vase motifs. Outer medallion on left side has child over human-headed beast; surrounded by stylized clouds, flowers with rosettes. Next medallion towards center has two human figures on horse, soldier; surrounded by leaf, tendril. Third mdallion near center: two seated figures, phoenix; surrounded by abstract forms. Medallion at right of center: procession, central figure, attendants, lion at base; surrounded by abstract fruit, flowers, geometric designs. Second medallion: possibly marriage group, four females on right, four males on left, male on horse, monkey with sprig, architectural form top centre; surrounded by abstract designs. Medallion at far left: central phoenix with hanging head amid scrolls and S designs. Cloud forms, waves, four humans gesturing, bearing articles, two birds lower edge. Two rectangular designs on right end with stylized flower, tendril designs. Triangular design opposite corner at left end. Double border at base and sides with butterfly, fruit, flowers, clouds, tassels. Hemmed sides.

History Of Use

Bed valance. 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.

Iconographic Meaning

Rosettes are good omens. Clouds symbolize agricultural fertility. Phoenix stands for longevity. Swastika for supreme good luck. Large umbrella, as in fourth medallion from left, represents respect, dignity, high rank. Lion, courage. Butterfly, joy and fidelity. Octagon, centre of fifth medallion, an auspicious symbol. Monkey bestows health and protection. Cocks, in sixth medallion, embody the young element characterized by courage, fidelity, benevolence. Cassia sprig bestows immortality. Pomegranates, in border, promise offspring. Scholar motif is meant to be a charm. Having a bed valance with a scholar charm was a promise to have a son who would become a scholar. Also has a motif of presiding ancestors.