Shawl c. 19th century

This striking blue shawl features embroidered botanical motifs, symbols of longevity and beauty in Chinese culture. Note the stylized rendering of the floral elements. These recall the acanthus leaves found in classical Greek art, adapted and reinterpreted across centuries. The acanthus, originally symbolizing resilience and immortality, traveled through the Mediterranean, influencing Roman and later Renaissance art. The motif appears in architectural ornaments and textiles, each time imbued with new cultural significance. In this shawl, the curling patterns are further abstracted, resembling animal or dragon forms. Such motifs tap into our collective memory, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. This reflects the cyclical progression of symbols, recurring in different contexts, evolving, and taking on new layers of meaning across time.