Imperial Workshops of Beijing
China
Qing dynasty (1644-1911)
Qianlong period (1736-1795)
276 x 376 cm
Asymmetrical knot
Silk pile, gilded copper threads
Cotton warp and weft
Excellent condition,
few lines of metal threads replaced
The inscription reads:
Ciningong Beiyong
Made for the Palace of Compassion and Tranquility
Provenance:
Brunk Auction, Asheville
By descent through the Samuel Wadsworth Russell family of Connecticut.
Russell founded the highly successful China Trade firm of Russell & Co., the largest trading house in China from 1842 until its closing in 1891.
Likely purchased in China by Russell or another family member, it descended to Elizabeth Russell, grandmother of the consignor.
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.
