Valance

Blue and white embroideries are part of a long domestic tradition. Designs vary geographically but are constant within generations of families except for minor individual variations. Often used to decorate the bed which traditionally played a focal part in household ritual particularly at the new year when all household spirits were honored. They are family made, by women, and family owned. These embroideries were of no local commercial value.

utilitarian;household

From left; dragon boat bearing a special child through the dragon gate with special attendants; several different Buddha's hands (citron) which relate to wealth and divine protection; double stars are cosmological symbols; vase with bifurcated flowers represent the tree of life; swastika centre symbolizes infinite celestial virtue; the person on a lion holding a flower in his hand is Chang Kuo Lao one of 8 immortals; peach tree in holder relates to immortality and marriage; the 5 different examples of 2 fish with dragon gate between signify a successful career. The cross superimposed on square is cosmological; domestic cock with riding figure relates to warmth and courage; the butterfly to joy and conjugal felicity; the phoenixes are symbols of the empress and of woman and good luck; the lotus pods are symbols of offspring and fruitfulness. The lotus on the border is a Buddhist symbol.

Long, rectangular, embroidered valance of cream fabric and indigo detailing. The design consists of five medallions; irregularly placed, surrounded by vases, figures, animals, flora, fauna, a building and a boat. The outer right medallion has an eight pointed star enclosed by floral motifs. The far left medallion is a cross with floral motifs on a square with swastikas, enclosed by tree designs. Right inner medallion has a star with eight marks surrounded by swastikas and floral designs. The left inner medallion has an eight pointed star enclosing white spirals and surrounded by organic motifs. Centre medallion has an open design with a swastika in the middle, from it extends four repeated sectors of flowers and leaves. Three sides have a double border with reverse flowing vine motifs. The long sides are selvedges and the short sides are raw.