AN IMPERIAL YELLOW-GROUND WOVEN SILK CEREMONIAL COVER
QIANLONG PERIOD (1735-1796) Himalayan Art Resources item no.16892 167 x 40 cm (65 3/4 x 15 3/4 in.), approx.
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御制黃地龍紋織錦法蓋乾隆時期(1735-1796)This exquisite textile has been carefully adapted from a pair of imperial throne cushion covers. One half centers on a large five-clawed horned dragon against a background of meandering clouds and above rolling waves. The other half centers on a large archaistic swastika with a central shou character, symbolizing long life, floating above an intricate field of clouds, diminutive swastikas, and auspicious bats. As the swastika refers to the number ten-thousand, the composition is a rebus meaning that longevity and happiness will be multiplied ten thousand times. The short edges of the textile have borders of scrolling vines, large peonies, and chrysanthemums, to which is added an applied fringe. The extremely fine covers have been modified to form a tubular sleeve, possibly storing an important ritual implement or banner. The central front-facing slit reveals a blue silk interior suggesting that the object stored inside was long and flexible, possibly a canopy with streamers used in ceremonial dance. For examples of imperial throne cushion covers with similar dragon designs, see Christie's, London, 7 November 2017, lot 349 and Christie's, South Kensington, 18 May 2012, lot 1348. Compare the Imperial throne back with four dragons encircling a fifth against the same ground design, dated to the Qianlong period, published by Jenyns & Watson, Chinese Art, vol.4, New York, 1960-5, pl.31. Provenance Private European Collection, acquired 1990-98