Chinese Skirt Embroidered with Flowers and Butterflies
OwnerOwned by
James Cromar Watt
(Aberdeen, Scotland, 1862 - 1940)
Date19th Century
Object NameSkirt
Mediumsilk and linen
ClassificationsFashion and Dress
Dimensions106.5 x 92cm
AcquisitionJames Cromar Watt Bequest, 1941.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS089833
About MeThis Chinese skirt is made up of several floor-length panels of embroidered silk gathered and stitched onto a broad linen waistband.
The design comprises peonies, pomegranates, finger lemons and chrysanthemums, symbolising, respectively, wealth, fertility, long life and friendship. This particular combination of floral symbolism was common in women's garments.
The design of the pleated panels has been broken up and repeated to accommodate the folds of the skirt.
The peonies, pomegranates and finger lemons have been embroidered with peach, orange and pale green solid stitch Peking knots. They are single-couched in gold thread.
Other techniques used in the making of this piece include satin stitch variations, with some scale carving stitches in the chrysanthemums on the border.
This skirt was probably made for the export market during the late Qing Dynasty.
James Cromar Watt
Qing Dynasty, 19th century
James Cromar Watt
Qing Dynasty, Qianlong Period, 1736 - 1795
James Cromar Watt
Qing Dynasty, 19th century
James Cromar Watt
Qing Dynasty, 19th century
19th Century
