Untitled

Unknown

18th century · Silk and metallic thread tapestry (kesi) · Asian Art

Perfect for a birthday celebration and probably intended as a gift, this massive panel extends one of the most cherished wishes in Chinese tradition: longevity, in the form of the Chinese character for that blessing, shou. The tapestry is meticulously executed with gold threads that parallel calligraphic effects, including the use of smudged areas at the end of several strokes—a technique known as “flying white” that reveals the mobility and rhythm of brushstrokes found in writing.

Artist

Unknown

Date

18th century

Medium

Silk and metallic thread tapestry (kesi)

Culture

China

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Gift of Barbaralee Diamonstein-Spielvogel, 1984