Panel piece
Qing dynasty (1644–1911), 1800/50
Medium
Satin, with couched cord
Dimensions
25.8 × 19.3 cm (10 1/8 × 7 1/2 in.)
Classification
textile
Department
Textiles
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
238514
Art Historical Context
This exquisite *Panel piece* from China's Qing dynasty (16441911), dating to around 18001850, exemplifies the era's mastery of luxurious textiles. Crafted from shimmering satin—a fine silk weave prized for its smooth luster and drape—this small panel (25.8 × 19.3 cm) likely served as a decorative element for garments, screens, or furnishings in elite households. During the Qing period, textile arts flourished under imperial patronage, reflecting the dynasty's prosperity and cultural refinement. The standout technique here is couched cord embroidery, where thick cords or threads are meticulous...
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...