This rectangular embroidered silk panel has an off white background. It is stitched together using the satin stitch. Satin stitches are series of flat stitches used to completely cover a section of the background fabric. The decorative designs on this piece include peonies, ‘Qilin’ (hooved mythical Chinese creature), butterflies and phoenixes. Peonies symbolised wealth and prosperity while pairs of butterflies symbolised love in marriage. Phoenixes signified high virtue in character. and ‘Qilin’ were good omens that brought prosperity. Such works of embroidery and beadwork had several functions, ranging from tablecloths to drapes for windows and doors among others. This piece is possible an unfinished article.
