Lot 3415. An embroidered civil official's rank badge of mandarin ducks, buzi, late Kangxi period (1662-1722); 13 3/8 x 13 3/4 in. (34 x 35 cm.). Estimate HKD 100,000 - HKD 180,000. Price realised HKD 300,000. © Christie's Images Ltd 2014.

Made for a seventh rank official, the front badge is worked in blue, green, coral and white thread to depict two mandarin ducks flying with wings outstretched, below scrolling clouds and above crashing waves, all set against a vibrant gold ground. Each mandarin duck is framed by a rectangular border of stylised scrolls interspersed with peacock feathers.

Provenance: A private Swedish collection sold by Linda Wrigglesworth Ltd during the early 1990s.

Note: Seventh rank officials, who were responsible for the post of District Magistrate, were the most important officials with whom the vast majority of ordinary Chinese people would have any dealings