A massive embroidered brocade panel, Late 18th-19th century. Photo Bonhams.

Impressively worked with pleasantly hued threads of various shades on a two-sectioned ivory ground, applying Peking knot technique, densely embroidered to the center with a large roundel of a chrysanthemum flower head surrounded by three rows of classic lotus flowers and leafy scrolls, bordered with small dots and additional C-shaped scrolls, set within a large rectangular reserve defined with thin embroidered bands, and filled with seasonal flowers, scrolling tendrils, and auspicious bats that repeat in a wide border further embroidered with squared scrolls; orange red silk backing woven with cloud patterns. 102 1/2 x 67 1/2in (260 x 117.5cm). Estimate US$ 6,000 - 8,000 (€4,400 - 5,800)

Large-sized embroidery panels typically served as bed and furniture covers during the Qing dynasty. Many were also custom-made for export. To see more illustrated examples of large embroidered silk panels from the 18th and 19th centuries, refer to Imperial Silk: Ch'ing Dynasty Textiles in the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, Robert D. Jackson, Minneapolis, 2000, Volume II, cat no. 542, pp. 938-941

Bonhams. FINE CHINESE WORKS OF ART. San Francisco. 17 Dec 2013 - www.bonhams.com