Cover Item Number: Edz1304 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Rectangular, brocade cover of cream fabric with dark blue design. The central motif consists of a round medallion with geometric stylized peach in centre; surrounding four peach blossoms, four peaches each with two swastikas, leaves and sprigs. The end border has two phoenix and two lotus. There is a triangular motif at each corner consisting of swastikas, phoenix and sprigs; persimmons and pomegranates. Ends hemmed; selvage edges. Four twill ties are sewn to the long edges.

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.

Cultural Context

utilitarian;household

Iconographic Meaning

Peach blossoms; dispels evil, longevity, immortality. Swastika; supreme good luck. Phoenix and lotus; offspring, joy, beauty. Persimmon and pomegranate; joy, posterity.

Item History

What

Name
Cover
Identification Number
Edz1304
Type of Item
cover
Material
indigo dye and cotton fibre
Manufacturing Technique
woven, stitched, embroidered and dyed
Overall
height 67.8 cm, width 37.8 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
0567/0079