Artwork preview

Table valance with phoenix

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Red fabric with black designs, square shape. Top section has a patterned border with symmetrical designs on either side of a central oval. The oval contains a Chinese character. The main section features a large bird, possibly a phoenix, surrounded by flowers and foliage. The bird has long tail feathers, a detailed body, and appears to be emerging from or amidst the floral patterns. The background of the main section is red, and the entire design is rendered in black. The fabric appears to be a table valance.

Artwork details

Date:
18th century
Medium:
Cut and voided silk velvet
Culture:
China
Dimensions:
517 × 624 px
Museum record:
View original
Palette