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An important silk brocade hanging of the Buddhist paradise

Woven silk and gilt thread.

Qianlong Period (AD 1736-1795).

Imperial Workshop, Beijing, China.

H: 154.5cm W: 72.5cm.

A silk hanging brocade woven with a purple hue blue, silvery blue, light green, light pink, fawn, black and white, with gold thread used for the ground. Five Chinese characters in gold thread reading, ‘Wuliangshou Zunfo’ (Revered Buddha of Measureless Long Life). On each side of the inscription two large discs amongst swirling clouds, representing the sun and the moon. Below the inscription, two groups of four apasaras (celestial beings) offer tributes to a floating umbrella. Three figures of the Buddha Amitabha occupy the center, depicted here as ‘The Buddha of the Three Ages’- Past, Present and Future. Directly below the Buddha Amitabha are the eighteen arhats (followers of The Buddha) each holding their attributes and facing inwards to a floating basket of flowers, all supported by rolling clouds. The four heavenly Kings occupy the bottom part of the panel, holding their attributes; a serpent, a pagoda, an umbrella and a sword. This silk brocade would have been produced at the Qing imperial workshop for religious worship at court, and is an example of the continuation of Buddhist practices from preceding dynasties.

 

  • An identical pattern from the Victoria and Albert Museum Collection, accession no. T.230-1965.

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The BADA Standard

  • Since 1918, BADA has been the leading association for the antiques and fine art trade
  • Members are elected for their knowledge, integrity and quality of stock
  • Our clients are protected by BADA’s code of conduct
  • Our dealers’ membership is reviewed and renewed annually
  • Bada.org is a non-profit site: clients deal directly with members and they pay no hidden fees
Click here for more information on the BADA Standard