Pillow End Panel Item Number: N3.32 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
One of a pair of embroidered panels on a horizontal rectangle of dark pink silk with a backing of yellow paper that is folded towards the front and pasted in place to form a frame. Each panel is finely embroidered with an arch shape open at the top made up of flowers, leaves, and four multi-coloured butterflies, one of which is near the bottom while the other is near the top of the side of the arch shape. One butterfly is in profile and the other with wings spread. The flowers are predominantly in shades of blue and green. Some details are couched in gold thread. Within the arch are four wide v-shapes of embroidered flowers and leaves opening toward the centre of the panel.
History Of Use
Such panels formed the sides of high pillows, square or rounded in cross-section, used to keep cool and to preserve the user’s hairdo. The pillows were filled with grain, such as unhusked rice. Such special pillow ends were used by wealthy people and members of the official “yangban” class. Such work was done by women working in workshops.
Specific Techniques
Embroidery pattern on coloured paper was transferred onto the silk using fine needles. The specific forms were done by eye, not following a detailed pattern. The embroidery was done with the silk cloth stretched on a rectangular frame.
Iconographic Meaning
The materials and fine work indicate that this was intended for use by a high-class person. Butterflies are symbols of harmony and carnal love, indicating that this pair of pillow ends (with N3.33) was probably for a couple. Pink fabric was also appropriate for a couple.
Item History
- Made in Korea before 1939
- Collected between 1899 and 1939
- Owned by Marion Stephan before August 1964
- Received from Marion Stephan (Donor) during August 1964
What
- Name
- Pillow End Panel
- Identification Number
- N3.32
- Type of Item
- panel
- Material
- silk fibre, gold metal, paper and paste adhesive
- Manufacturing Technique
- woven, transferred, embroidered, couched, folded and pasted
- Overall
- height 24.8 cm, width 38.8 cm, depth 0.2 cm
Who
- Culture
- Korean
- Previous Owner
- Marion Stephan
- Received from
- Marion Stephan (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Korea
When
- Creation Date
- before 1939
- Collection Date
- between 1899 and 1939
- Ownership Date
- before August 1964
- Acquisition Date
- during August 1964
Other
- Item Classes
- textiles
- Condition
- good
- Accession Number
- 0113/0117 a