Medallion

Unknown Artist

18th–19th century

Medallion by Unknown Artist

Medium

Silk; on silk

Dimensions

3 1/2 x 3 1/2 in. (8.89 x 8.89 cm)

Classification

Textiles-Embroidered

Culture & Period

China · Qing dynasty (1644–1911)

Department

Asian Art

Museum

Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY

Credit

Bequest of William Christian Paul, 1929

Accession Number

30.75.818

Tags

Butterflies

Art Historical Context

This delicate silk medallion, embroidered on silk, hails from China's Qing dynasty (16441911), a period renowned for its opulent craftsmanship and refined artistic traditions. Measuring just 3½ x 3½ inches, this square textile exemplifies the exquisite precision of Qing embroidery, where skilled artisans layered fine silk threads to create vibrant, textured designs. Likely intended as a decorative ornament for clothing, accessories, or furnishings, its small scale highlights the era's mastery of miniature artistry. Butterflies, a recurring motif captured in the tags, hold deep cultural symbol...

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