Valance Item Number: Edz1267 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Long, rectangular, cream valance with the top unfinished; sides are hemmed and the bottom is selvage. Repeating reverse fruit pattern along the sides and bottom (stylized rinceau border). The centre has a design of five medallions. First, from left: phoenix and a deer, both with reversed heads, deer has sprig in its mouth. Second: square geometric pattern, surrounded by circular fruit pattern. Third: geometric centre, eight lions in a circle, surrounded by fruit and star pattern. Fourth: stylized cross surrounded by twelve butterflies; two larger butterflies and two citron representing Buddha's hands in spaces between arms of cross. Fifth: butterflies and fruit in loose stylized flowing pattern.
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.
Cultural Context
utilitarian;household
Iconographic Meaning
Deer and phoenix; longevity. Peach; immortality, marriage. Butterfly; joy, true love. Citron; wealth, divine protection. Lion; valour.
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
What
- Name
- Valance
- Identification Number
- Edz1267
- Type of Item
- valance
- Material
- indigo dye and cotton fibre
- Manufacturing Technique
- woven, stitched, dyed and embroidered
- Overall
- height 44.6 cm, width 184.1 cm
Who
- Culture
- Chinese
- Previous Owner
- Kathleen F. Spooner
- Received from
- Kathleen F. Spooner (Seller) and Museum of Anthropology Donations Fund (Funding source)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Chengdu, Sichuan, China
When
- Creation Date
- before 1945
- Collection Date
- between 1932 and 1945
- Ownership Date
- before April 25, 1979
- Acquisition Date
- on April 25, 1979
Other
- Item Classes
- textiles
- Condition
- good
- Accession Number
- 0567/0042