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Rare Pair Korean Embroidery Civil Rank Badges Joseon Dynasty

Offered by: Tishu

Description
A pair of fine Korean silk embroidered rank badge (Hyungbae in Korean) from Joseon Dynasty circa late 19th century. A matching pair of Hyungbae like these is rare, especially when they have been well preserved. The badges feature a design of double flying cranes surrounded by auspicious colored clouds above Li-sui waves and rocks. One crane holds a branch of Lingzi the magic mushroom, symbol of longevity in its beak. The twin-crane badges were worn by the civil officials of the first to the third rank, while the fourth rank and below worn single-crane badges. Colored silk threads were used in tight long and short satin stiches, facilitated by chain stitches for outlining, to create the intricate imagery. The badges were housed in a brocade shadow mat with subtly woven pattern thin gild trim and presented in black wood frame with original hanging brass hinges.
The badge measures approximately 7.25" H x 6.75" W.
Originated in Chinese Ming court and known as "Mandarin Square" in the west, rank badges were used as symbolic identification of one's status in the civil and military service. The Ming tradition continued to Qing dynasty when it was coded with high formality, but it also spread to the Joseon court in Korea in the 15th century. Korean court adapted and modified the Chinese system; therefore, the symbolism and design layouts were distinct, yet they remained literally unchanged from the prototype for the next hundreds of years in Korean court.
For similar twin crane badges dated to the same period, see Accession Number: 53.60.9 in the collection of Metropolitan Musuem of Art, NYC and T.198 dash 1920 and 1848A-1888 in the collection of Victoria and Albert Musuem, London.
A nearly identical badge is in the collection of Rijks Musuem Amsterdam (6075-53). Illustrated in figure 55 on page 49 "Highlights from the Korean collection of Rijksmusuem Volkenkunde". (See last pic).

More Information

Origin:	South Korea
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	silk, wood, glass
Condition:	Good. Fine antique textile condition with vibrant colors. No noticed issues. Frame refinished. Backing paper updated.
Creation Date:	19th century
Number of Pieces:	2-3
Styles / Movements:	Asian, Traditional
Patterns:	Animal/Insects, Asian/Oriental, Handmade
Incollect Reference #:	780388

Dimensions

W.	12 in;	H.	15 in;	D.	1 in;
W.	30.48 cm;	H.	38.1 cm;	D.	2.54 cm;

Message from Seller:

Tishu, based in Atlanta, GA, offers a diverse collection ranging from Neolithic art to 20th-century collectibles, with a focus on Mid-century design, Japanese and Korean art, Asian textiles, and Contemporary Aboriginal art. Driven by a passion for timeless beauty, the gallery is open by appointment only and offers works that span 5,000 years of history. Reach them at 305-400-0561 or tishu@tishugallery.com.