Rank Badge, Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Kangxi period (1662–1722). Silk and metallic thread tapestry (kesi), 27.9 x 27.9 cm. Bequest of William Christian Paul, 1929 (30.75.830). © 2000–2024 The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The bird shown on this badge is a crane, corresponding to the highest rank of civil official. The badge is woven in a fine silk tapestry weave (kesi) with some details, especially outlines, in metallic thread. The sun, at the upper right, was a Qing-dynasty innovation not found on Ming badges.