Imperial throne, 18th century
Unknown artist, Chinaexpand_more
Polychrome lacquer over a softwood frameexpand_more
Gift of Ruth and Bruce Daytonexpand_more 93.32a-d
Not on Viewexpand_more
Made during the Qianlong period (r. 1736–95), this rare piece of court furniture is one of the larger and more fully decorated thrones outside China. Few lacquered thrones have dragons and celestial landscapes like those found here, painted in gold lacquer across the entire expanse of the seat. The composition and iconography of the five-clawed imperial dragons cavorting among clouds and flaming pearls above the ocean is an official insignia and similar to the decoration of court robes and other official court textiles of the period. The cabriole legs, aprons, and openwork back and side panels are all carved in relief with scrolls and lacquered in green, red, and gold. The panels of the removable back and side rails are decorated with stylized dragons and shou (longevity) medallions emblematic of imperial rule and long life.
Details
- Title
- Imperial throne
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 93.32a-d
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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