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Belt ornaments (pair)
Belt ornaments (pair)

Belt ornaments (pair)

Place of OriginChina
Dateapprox. 1850-1900
DynastyQing dynasty (1644-1911)
MaterialsEmbroidered silk gauze and paper
DimensionsH. 9 in x W. 5 in, H. 22.9 cm x W. 12.7 cm
Credit LineGift of Mrs. Ursula W. Bingham
Object number1988.32.3
DepartmentChinese Art
ClassificationsTextiles
On View
Not on view
More Information
This pair of ornaments incorporates a wish for success in examinations. Each is in the shape of a carp supporting a "dragon gate"; the leaping of the carp symbolizes success in exams. The gates themselves are marked in ink with the phrase "the five sons passed the test" (wuzi dengke), a reference to the five famous smart sons who all achieved such success.