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Table cover with auspicious flowers
Table cover with auspicious flowers

Table cover with auspicious flowers

Place of OriginChina
Dateapprox. 1850-1900
DynastyQing dynasty (1644-1911)
MaterialsEmbroidered silk
DimensionsH. 35 1/4 in x W. 35 1/2 in, H. 89.5 cm x W. 90.1 cm
Credit LineGift of Linda Kaye
Object number1988.50.12
DepartmentChinese Art
ClassificationsTextiles
On View
Not on view
More Information
The design features a floral disk shape with a tree peony (mudan) in the center, the flower symbolizing wealth and rank. Surrounding it are white magnolia, begonia, Osmanthus fragrans (the leafy branch with the tiny flowers), and crab apple. Altogether, the names of the flowers in Chinese make up the rebus (sound-alike pun) yutang fugui, or "wealth and rank in the jade hall," implying a wish for prosperity and high rank.
Subject
  • magnolia
  • begonia