Untitled

Unknown

19th century · Silk and metallic thread embroidery on silk satin and float-patterned plain-weave silk · Asian Art

This embroidered toy features a man riding a qilin, a fantastic animal commonly found in the decorative arts of the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing dynasties. Although its appearance can vary, the qilin seen here combines the features of a dragon (head, horns, and scales), a fantastical lion (tail), and a deer (body and hooves). Various auspicious items hang from the qilin, among them (from the left) scrolls, a sycee (silver ingot), books, and a handheld decorative accessory called a ruyi. The detachable rider holds a sheng, a type of mouth organ.

Artist

Unknown

Date

19th century

Medium

Silk and metallic thread embroidery on silk satin and float-patterned plain-weave silk

Culture

China

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Gift of Florance Waterbury, 1967