Antique Chinese robe, made of silk and woven with brilliantly colored fenghuang (phoenix) or firebirds, flowers and other feminine objects on a blue ground. Generous use of gold leaf covered thread, especially on the head and body of the birds.

Fenghuang (or Chinese phoenix) are considered a strong female symbol and the embodiment of high virtue and grace. This is especially true when it is used in the decorations for weddings or royalty along with dragons. The Chinese consider the dragon-and-phoenix design symbolic of blissful relations between husband and wife, and a common yang and yin metaphor.

Provenance: From the collection of Penny Marshal (most famous for her role as Laverne DeFazio in the television sitcom Laverne & Shirley)

Age: 19th Century

Dimensions: 54" high x 76" wide