Sleeve band decorated with Four Noble Professions motif, one of a pair

清朝丝狘彩绣渔樵翫琅套睪

The Four Noble Professions—studying, farming, fishing, and woodcutting—are a popular theme for the decorative arts of China. At the top of these sleeve bands can be seen a woodcutter, carrying a bundle of firewood and about to ford a stream. Below him a scholar studies inside a pavilion. Under a willow tree a young cowherd plays his flute while crossing a bridge on his buffalo; this part of the scene represents farming. At bottom is a fisherman with a catch on his pole.