Panel
Unknown Artist
19th century
Medium
Silk, metallic thread; on silk
Dimensions
18 1/2 x 7 3/4 in. (46.99 x 19.68 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
30.75.507
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite embroidered silk panel, created by an unknown artist in 19th-century China during Qing dynasty (1644–1911), showcases the pinnacle of imperial textile artistry. Measuring a slender 18½ x 7¾ inches, its narrow form suggests it may have adorned a robe sleeve, a screen, or ceremonial garment, reflecting the era's obsession with opulent decoration for the elite. Crafted from fine silk ground with silk and metallic threads, the panel features delicate floral motifs—a hallmark of Chinese embroidery symbolizing prosperity, beauty, and harmony with nature. Qing embroiderers mastered te...