Lot 66. An embroidered 'Peacock' rank badge, 19th century. Photo Christie's Image Ltd 2016

This front badge is embroidered on the dark blue ground in coloured silks and gilt thread with a peacock above foaming waves and amongst cloud scrolls, Buddhist symbols and bats. It is bordered with a gilt classical scroll. The badge, 10 5/8 x 10 5/8 in. (27 x 27 cm.), framed and glazed. With fraying to the top edge of the badge. A few loose threads. Some rubbing to the ground. Colours slightly dusty. Ready to hang. Estimation: USD 500 - 800

Note: This rank badge would have been worn on the front of a surcoat of a Third Rank Civil Official in the Qing dynasty Imperial bureaucracy. There were nine Civil ranks, and each rank would have been represented by a different bird. Military officials also wore rank badges, and their ranks were represented by animals representing strength, such as panthers and lions.

Christie's on line. The Art of China.