Cover Item Number: Edz1303 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Rectangular, embroidered cover of cream fabric and blue-black detailing. The central motif consists of peach blossom surrounded by a swastika design, four butterflies alternating with four bats. The diagonal corner designs are of bird and peach; opposite phoenix and flowers. There is a bowl of flowers at ends. Upper and lower edges are selvage; ends hemmed with a geometric design. Four cotton ties are sewn to selvages with pink thread.

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.

Iconographic Meaning

Peach blossom; dispels evil. Phoenix; peace, prosperity. Butterfly; joy, brightness, true love. Flowers; supernatural omen. Bat; happiness and long life. Swastika, supreme good luck.

Cultural Context

utilitarian;household

Item History

What

Name
Cover
Identification Number
Edz1303
Type of Item
cover
Material
indigo dye and cotton fibre
Manufacturing Technique
woven, stitched, embroidered and dyed
Overall
height 63.6 cm, width 36.4 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
0567/0078