Antique Victorian or early 20th century oak tray Chinese embroidery sleeve bands. This stunning tray has been repurposed and fitted with 2 stunning hand stitched and embroidery sleeve bands or decorative panels ( the pictures do not do justice to the work that has gone into making these truly amazing!!!), although the base has been fitted with 4 green corner pads to protect a surface these, have been added a lot later and could be removed easily. Lovely decorative handles with a glass top to protect the embroidery.
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Some minor age related wear
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50 cm wide handle to handle
25 cm depth
3 cm tall
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Chinese silk embroidered sleeve bands mounted within a hardwood frame.
Functionality: These trays can be used for serving, organizing, or displaying items, adding both style and functionality to a space.
Design: The tray in the image showcases a traditional Chinese aesthetic with embroidered panels depicting birds and flowers, framed by a Greek key pattern.
Materials: It is described as having silk embroidery mounted in a hardwood tray, suggesting a blend of textile art and woodworking.
Historical Context: Such items might incorporate antique Chinese silk embroidery panels, potentially from pieces like sleeve bands, repurposed into decorative trays
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Chinese sleeve bands, popular during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), were decorative, embroidered bands sewn onto the edges of sleeves, particularly on women's informal clothing. These bands, often adorned with symbolic motifs, expressed wishes for long life, many children, and a happy marriage, reflecting cultural values and desires. The motifs were derived from nature, mythology, and classical literature, allowing for personal expression within the framework of traditional symbolism.
Key aspects of Chinese sleeve bands:
Function: Sleeve bands were primarily decorative, adding visual interest to women's clothing. They were often detachable, allowing for versatility and customization.
Materials: They were typically made of silk and embroidered with silk thread.
Motifs: The motifs used were rich in symbolism, drawing from a variety of sources to convey wishes and aspirations.
Cultural Significance: Sleeve bands were a form of visual communication, expressing the wearer's desires and beliefs. They were easily understood by those familiar with Chinese culture and its symbolic language.
Evolution: The practice of embellishing the cuffs of sleeves likely evolved from the need to fold back or push up the wide sleeves of traditional Chinese garments, eventually leading to the creation of decorative cuffs.