Artwork Page for Headpiece

Details / Information for Headpiece

Headpiece

907–1125

China, Liao dynasty

(907-1125)
View all records in artwork set
Medium
embroidery, silk
Measurements
Overall: 21.8 x 34.9 cm (8 9/16 x 13 3/4 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Lisbet Holmes 1995.109.2
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
Not on view
Print

Description

These headpieces are embroidered with butterflies, birds, animals, flowers, leaves, and delicate vine scrolls. In general, the design is related to the theme of the lotus pond, best known from Liao tomb paintings. Paired ducks or geese swimming in water and looking in opposite directions seem to have become popular in the north of China before spreading further south and to Central Asia. On the other hand, recumbent animals looking back are a Central Asian image that migrated to northern China. Headpieces of this shape, intersected by two bands and secured by ties, have a long history in northern China. A gold replica was found in a tomb dating as early as 500–550.
A wide, symmetrical silk textile of muted green features two joined panels bisected by a broad horizontal band of tan silk. Golden-tan embroidery creates a dense thicket of swirling vines, leaves, and flowers across the surface. In the upper sections, small birds nestle among the foliage, while butterflies occupy the lower halves. A thin braided trim outlines the peaked shape, which concludes in frayed silk threads on the right.

Headpiece

907–1125

China, Liao dynasty (907-1125)

See Also

Visually Similar by AI

Contact Us

The information about this object, including provenance, may not be currently accurate. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please fill out the appropriate request form linked below:

Update or Correct Artwork Information

Imagery or Rights for Non-Open-Access Artworks

Report a Website Issue

Further Questions About This Artwork