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Framed Chinese Embroidered and Appliqued Silk Collar Qing Dynasty

Offered by: Tishu

Description
A silk collar from China dated to late Qing Dynasty circa 19th century. Known as Yunjian (Cloud Shoulder or Cloud Collar), this multi-lobed textile piece was a detachable collar worn around the shoulders as part of the traditional Chinese garment accessory. With its origin back to the Han Dynasty and used it until the end of Qing Dynasty, the form evolves with time, but much of the ornamentation and fundamental symbolism remains the same.
This striking example features a two-tiered design with eight lobes on each circle, all of which are variations of the shape of auspicious "ruyi", which represents the head of Lingzhi mushroom, a symbol of longevity. The inner lobes were made with appliqued patchwork of colorful silk. The outer lobes feature elaborate embroidery of assortment of colorful flowers, scrolling ribbons and butterfly, using mostly long and short satin stitches. The borders and outlines of the designs were lineated with metallic threads buddled in chain stitches. Small black pearls were used to link the piece together and most of them still remain.
In Qing Dynasty, the silk collar with high quality was worn by noble or aristocratic women. The red color and the lotus boy symbol indicate that it was most likely part of the fashion accouterment worn during wedding ceremony.
The collar is beautifully float mounted within a double conforming mat in a giltwood frame and wood backing. A stunningly presented period piece with story to tell.
Reference: For a collection of Chinese embroidered collars, see page 736-745 of book "Imperial Silks Ch'ing Dynasty Textile in the Minneapolis Institute of Arts".

More Information

Origin:	China
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	silk, pearl, wood frame
Condition:	Good. Appears in fine antique textile condition with minor wear such as loose threads on the edge shown in detail pics, not examined out of the frame. Frame with light wear.
Creation Date:	19th century
Styles / Movements:	Asian, Traditional
Patterns:	Asian/Oriental, Florals/Botanical, Geometric, Handmade
Incollect Reference #:	622041

Dimensions

W.	26.75 in;	H.	26.75 in;	D.	1 in;
W.	67.95 cm;	H.	67.95 cm;	D.	2.54 cm;

Message from Seller:

Our collection ranges from Neolithic Art to 20th century collectible art and design. It spans 5000 thousand years of history and crosses many civilizations and cultures. Our aesthetic strongholds are Mid-century studio design, Japanese and Korean art, Asian Textile Art and Contemporary Aboriginal Art. The diversity is united behind our singular vision to seek for timeless beauty and driven purely by our passion