Towel Rack, early 18th century
Unknown artist, Chinaexpand_more
Huanghuali hardwoodexpand_more
Gift of Ruth and Bruce Daytonexpand_more 96.120.6
On View in Gallery 218expand_more
Sets of bedroom furniture, including towel racks, wash basin stands, storage trunks, dressing tables, mirror stands, and canopy beds were standard items in an aristocratic woman’s dowry (gifts a bride’s family contributed to her marriage). This freestanding hardwood towel rack, which exhibits exceptionally refined work, is the only example of this type known to exist. The top rail is decorated at each end with lingzhi motifs, the fungus of immortality. Both sides of the central panel feature exquisitely carved scenes of mandarin ducks in lotus ponds. The presence of these ducks, which mate for life, suggests a wish for a long, happy marital union.
Details
- Title
- Towel Rack
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 96.120.6
- 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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