Pair of fans depicting scenes from Romance of the Western Chamber
Place of OriginChina
DateQing dynasty, approx. 1800-1911
MaterialsIvory, inlaid gemstones, metal hinges, and silk tassels
DimensionsH. 48 in x W. 10 in, H. 122.5 cm x W. 25.3 cm (overall); H. 18 3/4 in x W. 10 in, H. 47.5 cm x W. 25.3 cm (fan only)
Credit LineGift in memory of Lee Herbert Fahnestock
Object number1992.93.1-.2
DepartmentChinese Art
ClassificationsDecorative Arts
On View
Not on view(Set of 2)
Similar episodes from the Romance of the Western Chamber, one of the famous love stories of China, are shown in mirror image on these fans:
1. Oriole and her maid, Hongniang (Crimson), in the garden, listening to Zhang playing the qin.
2. Oriole meeting Zhang in the temple.
3. Madame Cui, the mother of Oriole (having discovered the trysting of the lovers), chastising Crimson, who acted as the go-between for the lovers. After hearing the whole story Madame Cui relented, but stipulated that Zhang had to pass his civil service examination before he could marry Oriole.
4. Oriole saying farewell to Zhang.
5. Zhang studying for his examination late at night.
6. Zhang returning in triumph after passing his exams.
Such fans were produced for the tourist market rather than for domestic use.
Similar episodes from the Romance of the Western Chamber, one of the famous love stories of China, are shown in mirror image on these fans:
1. Oriole and her maid, Hongniang (Crimson), in the garden, listening to Zhang playing the qin.
2. Oriole meeting Zhang in the temple.
3. Madame Cui, the mother of Oriole (having discovered the trysting of the lovers), chastising Crimson, who acted as the go-between for the lovers. After hearing the whole story Madame Cui relented, but stipulated that Zhang had to pass his civil service examination before he could marry Oriole.
4. Oriole saying farewell to Zhang.
5. Zhang studying for his examination late at night.
6. Zhang returning in triumph after passing his exams.
Such fans were produced for the tourist market rather than for domestic use.
1650-1750
approx. 1600-1700
approx. 1880-1911
approx. 1850-1900
approx. 1800-1900
1800-1900
1890-1915
approx. 1850-1950
1800-1900