Untitled

Unknown

late 16th–early 17th century · Silk and metallic-thread tapestry (kesi) · Asian Art

Two Chinese lions playfully circle a brocade ball in the central roundel of this panel, surrounded by a field of birds in flight and various flowers on a scrolling vine. Each corner's quarter medallion contains a phoenix roundel, and the border features clouds and cranes. The dual orientation of the panel vertically—either short side could serve as the top—lends support to the suggestion the cloth once found use as the cover for a large piece of furniture such as a daybed, or kang.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 16th–early 17th century

Medium

Silk and metallic-thread tapestry (kesi)

Culture

China

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Gift of Amy Greene, 1969