Chinese official's rank badge
Artist
China
Date19th c.
MediumTextile
ClassificationsInformation Forms
Credit LineBequest of Agnes Hulburd Conger
Object number1981.9.29
DescriptionChinese official's rank badge, or so-called "mandarin square". Typically worn in pairs on the front and back of the outer coat (p'u-fu) for formal court functions. Central design of a bird on a stylized background of clouds, sky, sun, and water, woven in chinese silk tapestry weave (kesi). Bird motifs denote 9 ranks of civilian government officials. Military have designs of animals on theirs. Badge is lined in blue silk taffeta with an innerlining of ecru cotton. Separately woven border strips feature an interlocking swastika pattern. Bird drawn in blue ink.On View
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