19th-Century Qing Chinese Red Silk & Gold-Thread Buddhist Lion Embroidery

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Description

A striking antique Chinese embroidered textile fragment, believed to date to the Qing dynasty, likely 19th century, featuring a highly … Read more A striking antique Chinese embroidered textile fragment, believed to date to the Qing dynasty, likely 19th century, featuring a highly stylized Buddhist guardian lion (fu or foo lion) against a brilliant red silk ground.

The lion is extensively worked in traditional couched metallic gold-wrapped thread, with multiple parallel metallic threads secured to the silk ground by fine couching stitches. Changes in the direction and density of the laid threads create remarkable texture throughout the lion’s expressive mask-like face, curling mane, body and dramatic plume-like ornament.

The approximately 11” × 13.25” red silk section appears to survive from a larger decorative or ceremonial textile; several embroidered motifs continue into the perimeter of the surviving panel. At a later date, the antique textile was mounted within a complementary patterned silk brocade/damask border and framed under glass against a blue mat.

An especially decorative example of antique Chinese textile work, combining a vivid vermilion-red ground with beautifully aged metallic embroidery.

Dimensions:
Overall: 23” W × 21” H
Red embroidered textile: approximately 11” W × 13.25” H
Mounted textile including brocade surround: approximately 14.5” × 17”

Creator: Unknown
Period: 19th Century
Country of Origin: China
Style: Qing Dynasty / Chinese
Materials: Silk, metallic thread, silk brocade, glass, wood
Color: Red, gold, blue, beige/taupe, black
Item Type: Antique / Vintage / Pre-owned
Condition: Good See less