We acknowledge the Gadigal of the Eora Nation, the traditional custodians of the Country on which the Art Gallery of NSW stands.

Title

Pair of rank badges for a 1st or 2nd rank official - crane

19th century

Artists

Unknown Artist

Alternate image of Pair of rank badges for a 1st or 2nd rank official - crane by
Alternate image of Pair of rank badges for a 1st or 2nd rank official - crane by
  • Details

    Date
    19th century
    Media category
    Textile
    Materials used
    embroidered silk, couched gold thread
    Dimensions
    25.5 x 23.5 cm
    Credit
    Gift of Judith and Ken Rutherford 2006
    Location
    Not on display
    Accession number
    300.2006.a-b
    Copyright

    Reproduction requests

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  • About

    This pair of badges has faded considerably. The outline of the crane holding a peach in the mouth is clearly visible and was said to symbolise immortality. The crane insignia was awarded to 1st and 2nd rank civil officials. The peach branch also symbolised a successful scholar as it was one of the items the Emperor of Viet Nam presented to successful candidates in the imperial examinations. Five classic stylised waves frame the bottom section of the badges with delicately executed floral forms in the background. The border is couched gold thread in a key fret design.

    Asian Art Department, AGNSW, August 2006