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Rank badges, always made in pairs, were placed on the front and back of surcoats in order to communicate their wearer’s rank during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing dynasties (1644-1911). The front badge is made into two separate panels to accommodate the front opening of a surcoat, while the back badge is made in one piece. Different motifs were regulated by the imperial court, including bird motifs used only for civil officials while beasts were used for military officials. The hierarchy of ranks within these categories was represented by specific birds and beasts. This pair of rank badges features a crane, which is identified by its red crown and white feathers. The crane is standing on a rock amidst multi-coloured waves, pink peonies, trees, and clouds. The motifs on these badges, which are identical for the front and back, have been rendered in tapestry weave with a brilliant gold background. The sun on the left side of these badges indicates that the wearer was male.