An antique Chinese rank badge in gold embroidery, couched in dyed silk threads, in triptych wood frame. And an antique decorative embroidered panel in gold threading and dyed silk threads, with a lion motif, China, early- to mid-20th century; marked with stamp on verso. Embroidered rank badges were worn on the clothing as a sign of rank in the imperial court, distinguished by the imagery on the badge. This imagery of the pheasant, facing the sun (or moon), with flowers and symbols in the sky, indicates possibly a second-rank civil official. China, mid 19th - early 20th century; unmarked. For more information on Chinese imperial badges see http://www.pacificasiamuseum.org/rankandstyle/index.stm. Dimensions of rank badge: with frame, side panels: approx. 7-3/8" W x 12-3/4" H x 1/2" D; with frame, large center panel: approx. 13-7/8" W x 12-3/4" H x 1/2" D. Badge dims (w/o frame), side panels: approx. 5-3/4" W x 11-1/4" H; large panel approx. 12-3/8" x 11-1/4" H. Dimensions of lion panel: approx. 13-1/4" W x 27-1/4" H.

Rank badge: in good condition for age and use; age appropriate fade to pigments in the silk, gold thread in very good condition. Some wear and loose/broken threads at top center of central panel; right side panel has some thread breakage in center and top, likely due to a crack/bend on the verso of the supporting frame. Same supporting wood on right panel loose from chip and lost nail, but stable. Wood support of central frame also has some chipping/cracks, but stable. Overall in good condition, but should be handled with care. Lion panel: in good condition, a few loose threads at top, some stains/discoloration, appropriate for age and use. Water stains/discoloration on verso.