246 - Large silk hanging with a red background depicting Magu, China, 20th century

Large silk hanging with a red background depicting Magu, China, 20th century In a vertical rectangular format, the Taoist goddess is depicted standing, richly dressed, carrying a tray on which rest peaches, a lingzhi, a lotus flower, and a teapot. She is surrounded by a phoenix, a crane holding a branch of peaches, and five bats holding objects of good omen. At the top, a flap is embroidered with five children among lotus flowers holding parasols; one is riding a qilin, symbolizing an enduring lineage and, above all, the birth of a boy. Indeed, the qilin (麒麟) symbolizes luck, prosperity, benevolence, and kindness, but it is also believed to have the power to foretell the birth of a boy. 255 x 170 cm Stains.