Untitled

Unknown

early 18th century · Silk, feather, and metallic thread embroidery on silk satin · Asian Art

The egret corresponds to the sixth civil rank. The bird on this badge has lost most of the long white crest that is an identifying mark of the egret; however, a few white threads still remain near the head. These traces of the crest and the bird's green legs and bill confirm its identity. The rock on which the egret stands was once embroidered completely with peacock feather thread, now mostly lost. It would have shimmered with iridescence, rivaling the splendor of the gold background.

Artist

Unknown

Date

early 18th century

Medium

Silk, feather, and metallic thread embroidery on silk satin

Culture

China

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Bequest of William Christian Paul, 1929