VALANCE FROM RED WOOL WITH DRAGONS China, Qing dynasty, first half of 19th ct. 278 x 67 cm Strong red woolen fabric with fulled surface (imported from the West), embroidered with silk in graduated shades of blue in satin and knot stitch, gold threads appliquéd. Border and lining: silk, added later. The pair of running five-clawed dragons are positioned opposing each other with a central flaming pearl in the center. They are surrounded by clouds resembling mushrooms of immortality (lingzhi). Between them are placed bats and the Eight Buddhist Treasures. Below the diagonal lines of deep water with clouds, treasures and stylized rocks. From an Austrian private collection, acquired before 2007 - Cf.: Red wool valance, late 19th ct., Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, inv. no. 11.150 Colors barely faded, partially discolored, possibly due to water damage