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Accession Number 2005.5.229 Title Back Panel of a Rank Badge Category textiles Object Type rank badge Artist unknown Date Made 1368-1644 Place Made China Culture Chinese Period Ming 14th-17th centuries Materials silk tapestry weave Materials Glossary Tapestry Weave View Materials Glossary Details » Measurements overall: 40 cm x 44.4 cm Description

A tapestry weave (kesi) rank badge featuring two phoenixes surrounded by multi-coloured clouds and geometric peonies. The design on this badge, which includes the two phoenixes in an upper and lower position, reflects…

A tapestry weave (kesi) rank badge featuring two phoenixes surrounded by multi-coloured clouds and geometric peonies. The design on this badge, which includes the two phoenixes in an upper and lower position, reflects a typical imperial court style from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). The phoenix is a mythical creature that is considered to be the highest-ranking bird in Chinese culture. These types of imperial court badges were always worn in pairs, with on badge placed on the front of a robe and an identical badge attached to the back.

Read More + Credit Line Gift of Sandy and Cécile Mactaggart