Chinese Textiles: Auspicious Motifs
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The God of Longevity
China, Qing dynasty, 18th–19th centuryAsian Gallery (Toyokan) Room 5
January 2, 2025 (Thu) - March 23, 2025 (Sun)Since ancient times, people in China have expressed their wishes for happiness through clothing and other belongings decorated with auspicious motifs. For example, the god of longevity, Shouxing, is considered an incarnation of the South Pole star, which governs the lifespans of humans. In addition, grapes, which bear many fruits, symbolize plentiful offspring. Butterflies also represent longevity. In celebration of the Chinese New Year, this exhibition presents textiles with auspicious motifs.
| Designation | Name | Creation/ Excavation/ Provenance |
Period | Acquisition/ Ownership/ Accession Number |
CMT | ||
| Highlight | The God of Longevity | China | Qing dynasty, 18th–19th century | TI-382 | |||
| Highlight | Textile with a "Myriad Treasures" Pattern | China | Ming dynasty, 16th–17th century | TI-190-7 | |||
| Highlight | Decorative Cuffs with Musical Instruments, Flowering Plants, Clouds, and Bats | China | Qing dynasty, 18th–19th century | TI-76-1 |