Red silk square textile embroidered with six animals in the clouds in polychrome and gold threads, China, 19th centuryThe central design shows two tigers and the four animals called "four powers"- 四靈 - silling. According to legend, four heavenly and benevolent animals are responsible for the creation of the world: the dragon, phoenix, qilin and turtle. They are found alongside the tiger in the five elements in Chinese tradition. A frieze of flowers and volutes borders the textile. 116 x 111 cmRepair and wear. The dragon symbolizes Wood and guards the East, the black turtle guards the North and corresponds to Water, the white tiger guards the West and is associated with Metal, the phoenix guards the South and corresponds to the element Fire. The qilin symbolizes the Earth element. 十九世纪 四灵白虎祥云纹彩金线丝织刺绣