Third Rank Civil Official's Insignia with Peacock

This sumptuous insignia badge well represents the opulence of the early Qing court. Worn by a third-rank civil official, the badge is embroidered on a background of couched gold thread laid in various geometric shapes, while the rock formation and parts of the bird's body are formed with couched threads wrapped in peacock feathers. The display of a badge so elaborately decorated with luxurious metallic threads would have served as a clear indication of the wearer's wealth and social status. This type of gold couching was fashionable during the Kangxi reign.