Textile Item Number: Edz1329 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Square, brocade textile of cream fabric with indigo detailing; the edges are hemmed and bordered with a zigzag pattern. The corner designs consist of two with butterflies and swastikas and two with stylized swastika patterns. The central medallion has a peach blossom surrounded by four reverse peach motifs; surrounded by two cherry blossoms and four butterflies.

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

Butterfly; joy, conjugal felicity. Swastika, supreme good luck. Peach blossom; charm against evil. Cherry blossom; feminine beauty.

Cultural Context

utilitarian;household

Item History

What

Name
Textile
Identification Number
Edz1329
Type of Item
textile
Material
cotton fibre and indigo dye
Manufacturing Technique
woven, dyed, stitched and embroidered
Overall
height 35.0 cm, width 33.7 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
0567/0104