Badge of Rank
Date1700s
Mediumsilk, dye and metallic thread
DimensionsOverall: 11 7/8 x 12 1/4 in. (30.2 x 31.1 cm)
ClassificationsInformation Forms
Credit LineGift of Harold E. Abbott
Terms
Object number80.0259
DescriptionThis badge of rank is a Peacock, Third Grade. The term k'o-ssu has been written with various characters, denoting "cross-threads," "weft woven threads," or "weft woven colors." The characters now mean "cut threads," referring to the separations of weft threads of different colors that terminate at the margin of the colored areas instead of running through the width of the cloth. Archaeological evidence suggests that the k'o-ssu technique was in use by the late T'ang dynasty (618-906). The most elaborate k'o-ssu tapestries, brocades, and embroideries produced by the Chinese were executed during the Qing dynasty, particularly under the reign of Emperor Ch'ien-lung.On View
Not on viewCollections
ca. 1800
late 19th century
