Silk Tapestry Weave Hanging

A large kesi, or tapestry weave, hanging that depicts two phoenixes gazing towards one another in a peony-filled garden with scholar's rocks. The male phoenix (feng) is flying above the female (huang), who is standing on a rock. The male phoenix has five long serrated tail feathers and the female phoenix has curling tail feathers. Phoenixes are considered to be the highest-ranking birds in Chinese culture and they are a much-utilized auspicious symbol in textiles, garments and paintings. They are often paired with peonies and relay a message of good fortune, richness, honour and springtime.