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Fan depicting scenes from Romance of the Western Chamber, one of a pair
Fan depicting scenes from Romance of the Western Chamber, one of a pair

Fan depicting scenes from Romance of the Western Chamber, one of a pair

Place of OriginChina
Dateapprox. 1800-1911
DynastyQing dynasty (1644-1911)
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
DepartmentChinese Art
ClassificationsDecorative Arts
On View
Not on view
More Information
Episodes from the Romance of the Western Chamber, one of the famous love stories of China, are shown on this fan:
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.