Belt ornaments (pair)
Place of OriginChina
Dateapprox. 1850-1900
DynastyQing dynasty (1644-1911)
MaterialsEmbroidered silk gauze and paper
DimensionsOverall (including tassel and black loop at top): H. 9 in × W. 5 in (22.9 cm × 12.7 cm)
Credit LineGift of Mrs. Ursula W. Bingham
Object number1988.32.3
DepartmentChinese Art
ClassificationsTextiles
On View
Not on viewThis pair of ornaments incorporates a wish for success in examinations. Each is in the shape of a carp supporting a "dragon gate"; the leaping of the carp symbolizes success in exams. The gates themselves are marked in ink with the phrase "the five sons passed the test" (wuzi dengke), a reference to the five famous smart sons who all achieved such success.
approx. 1800-1911
approx. 1800-1911
approx. 1800-1900
approx. 1800-1911
approx. 1800-1900
approx. 1800-1911
approx. 1800-1900
1880-1930
approx. 1850-1900
approx. 1850-1900
approx. 1800-1900