This lower panel of this red embroidered altar cloth is decorated with five gold thread lions, with protruding plastic eyes. Lions denote strength and are symbols of protection in Buddhism. The upper panel is decorated by the Eight Immortals (baxian in Mandarin) The borders of the embroidered cloth are decorated with flowers on a cream background, as well as circle mirrors and metal buttons. Altar cloths are textiles which are hung on the front of Chinese altars during ceremonial occasions.
