The Emperor's Tapestry ... Chinese Silk Tapestry
Emperor Xianfeng, who reigned as emperor of China during the later years of the Qing Dynasty, commissioned this tapestry as a tribute to his family. The Qing Dynasty was the last imperial dynasty of China (following the Ming Dynasty) and lasted from 1644 to 1912. The Qing Dynasty was ruled by the Manchu and in its earlier years experienced relative political and economic stability, fostering a culture supportive of the arts. However, by the time Xianfeng became Emperor in 1850 at the age of 19 things were in turmoil. Emperor Xianfeng suffered from the stresses of a failing government and died in 1861 at the age of 30, leaving his only heir, a 6-year old son, as ruling Emperor.*
This rich Chinese imperial artifact of colorful silk embroidery and gold leaf detailing depicts the family clan of Emperor Xianfeng, whose name means universal prosperity. It is conjecture, but one can imagine this beautiful tapestry hanging on the wall behind the Emperor’s throne and used by the Emperor to explain to his young son their family history and traditions. Lessons of hope and joy in the midst of turmoil.
Of particular interest in the tapestry is the unique details woven into its borders. Among the twisting vines of the bordering floral motif is a curious detail—the figure of a bat—which is repeated several times throughout the tapestry. Father Nicola Mapelli, head curator of the Vatican’s Ethnological Museum collection, explains that the bat is one of the most popular auspicious symbols in Chinese culture; the Chinese word for “bat” is “fu,” and this word coincidentally has the same pronunciations as the Chinese word for “good fortune” or “happiness.” The bat therefore has a long tradition in Chinese art as being the symbol for good fortune; a visual application of a homophone.
Other significant symbolism found here includes:
- Bats are often depicted in red because red is recognized in Chinese culture as a color of joy
- The word for red bat, “hong fu,” sounds exactly like the Chinese word for “boundless good fortune.”
- Beyond its red face and distinct ears, the bat’s ornate wings are curved in the shape of a ruyi scepter, another good luck emblem
- The bat’s wings are depicted in white, which symbolizes longevity.
Thanks to the hard work of the Polymateric Laboratory, the tapestry is being completely restored to beautiful condition and will be hung in the Vatican’s Ethnological Museum once again to exhibit its rich fabric and cultural symbolism. In the meantime, the tapestry’s inscription is being studied. Who knows what further exciting details are yet to be uncovered.
*Note: The Qing Dynasty was overthrown 1912 when Sun Yet-Sen organized a successful rebellion against the Qing Dynasty. Following the takeover, Sun Yet-Sen reigned as President. Sun Yet-Sen is credited with having brought Christianity and freedom of religion to China.
Updates from the Restoration Laboratory
The Restoration Laboratory provides periodic updates on the progress of the tapestry’s restoration. The fragility of the silk makes this a particularly challenging project.
Photos of Work in Progress
Click on any photo to launch a slideshow. Photos provided courtesy of the Restoration Laboratory staff and/or Patrons taken during their private tours.
