Antique Altarpiece - Linen, Cotton, Silk - 1850-1900 - altar valance of Tok Wi

Grand Antique Chinese Embroidered Silk Altar Cloth with Unique Inscription - Fu Lu Shou & Buddhist Lions - Late Qing Dynasty, circa 1900 (104 x 75 cm)

Description:
A beautiful, museum-quality and authentic antique Chinese altar cloth (also known as an altar valance or Tok Wi) of substantial size (104 cm wide by 75 cm high). This ceremonial textile was traditionally used to adorn the front of an altar table in a temple or family shrine during major Buddhist or Taoist festivals.

The cloth is divided into two registers and is richly decorated with refined hand embroidery:
Central Panel: Depicts the Three Star Gods (Fu Lu Shou), the popular deities of Happiness, Prosperity, and Longevity. The figure of Shou Lao (the god of long life) is beautifully and intricately rendered with his iconic peach of immortality. The figures are surrounded by expressive, mythical Buddhist lions (Fu-hounds) that symbolize spiritual protection.
Upper Frieze: A narrow band with a lively procession of diverse mythological figures, immortals, and animals.

Technique & Craftsmanship:
The embroidery testifies to exceptional craftsmanship and makes extensive use of the traditional 'couching' technique. Thick metallic gold- and silver-thread strands are anchored to the ground fabric with ultra-fine colored silk stitches to create a stunning three-dimensional relief effect. The faces and expressions are woven with extreme precision in fine silk threads.

Unique Inscription on the Reverse:
Very special and of great value to collectors and historians is the original handwritten ink inscription on the pink reverse: 「焦金地杠太子壽」 (Jiao Jin Di Gang Tai Zi Shou). This inscription serves as a unique historical document; it refers to the specific provenance (a local district or procession guild named 'Jiaojin') and indicates that the piece was donated specifically in honor of the birthday (Shou) of the Prince deity (Taizi, associated with the child god Nezha).

Specifications:

Material: Silk, gold/silver threads (metallic thread), reverse side made of sturdy aged period cotton/linen.

Dimensions: 104 cm (width) x 75 cm (height).

Period: Late Qing Dynasty / early Republican period (circa 1900).

Origin: China.

Condition:
In good, authentic antique condition with characteristic signs of age appropriate to its ceremonial temple use. The textile shows some historical discolorations and stains on the backing cloth, as well as light wear and fraying along the outer edges. There are a few loose threads in the gold embroidery, but the overall structural integrity and the vibrancy of the colors are well preserved. Supplied with the original fabric hanging loops at the top edge.

Careful and Secure Shipping
We understand that this antique and delicate textile piece requires the utmost care. Therefore, we take extraordinary care with packaging.
Packaging Method: The altar cloth is carefully rolled or flat-packed (between acid-free protective material), protected with bubble wrap, and securely packed in a double-walled cardboard box to prevent creases and damage during transport.