CHINA, late Qing dynasty, 19th century. - Lot 244

CHINA, late Qing dynasty, 19th century. Large temple embroidery adorned with a frieze of mythical characters, including the eight immortals on their mounts, such as Han Xiangzi, patron saint of musicians, or Lan Caihe, the delighted beggar carrying a basket of flowers. These Taoist deities embody different social profiles, such as the old man, the nobleman, the beggar, the scholar, etc. The three stars of happiness (san xing) dear to Chinese popular religion are also recognizable: Shou Xing leaning on his crooked staff, Lu Xing with a child in his arms, Fu Xing holding a ruyi scepter. All this little world evolves in a celestial landscape where Buddhist emblems and precious objects such as jewels, banners, parasols, double gourds, books, etc., flutter about. Red silk embroidered with polychrome silk thread and gold thread. Black silk border. Cotton lining. Dimensions: 440 X 73 cm. (Wear, tears and stains)