Desk screen

18th century

The panels on this table screen depict silk-making processes, including growing mulberry leaves and drying silkworm cocoons. One scene has a flag that is inscribed “The Silk Guild.” Clearly, the person who commissioned this screen for his desk was connected to the industry, perhaps in Zhejiang province, which was known for silk production.

Lacquer with mother-of-pearl

4 15/16 in. (12.54 cm)

Overall h.: 8 7/8 in.

Overall w.: 16 1/4 in.

Gift of Mr. Cornelius Ruxton Love, Jr.

55.214

Not currently on view

Resources

Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Art Museum, Pure Amusements: Wealth, Leisure, and Culture in Late Imperial China, Dec. 24, 2016 - May 15, 2022.

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