Cushion Cover Possibly 1644 - 1911

This cushion cover was made by Manchu artists; it’s a window into the social and political world of imperial China. The vibrant yellow silk, intricately embroidered with flowers and phoenixes, speaks to its intended use within the imperial court. Yellow was reserved for the emperor, and the phoenix is a symbol of the empress. These visual codes communicate power and status, reinforcing the social hierarchy of the time. The Manchu, a conquering people, adopted Chinese artistic traditions and adapted them to their own cultural and political needs. Examining the design and production of this cushion cover allows us to explore the complex relationship between culture, power, and identity in imperial China. Court records and period illustrations are invaluable in helping us to understand how the symbolism on display was read at the time. Only by considering the social and institutional context can we truly understand the meaning embedded within this work.