Imperial Workshops of Beijing
China
Qing dynasty (1644-1911)
Qianlong period (1736-1795)
163 X 245 cm
Asymmetrical knot
Silk pile, gilded copper threads
Cotton warp and weft
Excellent condition
Published:
The Flower of Buddha, Silk and Metal Carpets from the Forbidden City, Textilia, 2006, p. 95 catalogue n°27
Exhibited:
Mar 19 – Jun 15, 2007 – Danon Gallery, New York
THE FLOWER OF BUDDHA
Silk and Metal Carpets from the Forbidden City
Provenance:
Collection of Benjamin Bolour, Los Angeles
IMPERIAL CARPETS – KUNLUN
Arising from the Ocean of Eternity, the mountainous range of Kunlun was referred to in early literature as the origin of all things on earth and the residence of the Queen Mother of the West, one of the Daoist deities.
Praised in early literature as vehicles transporting immortals to heavenly realms, Cranes symbolized longevity and wisdom and were important constituents of Xiwangmu’s realm. Besides, the eight remarkable horses that belonging to King Mu Wang (1001-947 BC) were also vehicles transporting immortals to heaven.
Since the earliest phases of Chinese history, dragons were seen as intermediaries between heaven and earth. Casting light onto the Gate of Heaven, they allowed one to glimpse the wondrous residence of immortal beings.
