Wedding bed hangings were usually hung from the front of the canopy of the four-poster bed. These were usually created using the threading method. However, some might also combine various embroidery techniques to create a more intricate piece of art.This bed hanging could also have served as a valance or bed skirt that was used below the bed to conceal the supports or clutter. It is made using the Peking and satin stitch, as well as metallic thread couching. It contains motifs of paired phoenixes, peonies, finger citrons, peaches, pomegranates, pineapples, roses and birds. Many of those mentioned are auspicious symbols in Chinese culture. The paired phoenixes symbolised the wedding couple and virtue while peonies represented beauty, riches and honour. At the top and centre of this piece is the Chinese character ‘Xi’ (double happiness). This motif commonly appears on decorative items associated with weddings.
