Man's Rank Badge Possibly 1880 - 1911

print, weaving, textile, paper

natural stone pattern

naturalistic pattern

print

weaving

stain glass

textile

animal print

paper

text

geometric pattern

tile art

ethnic pattern

costume

wooden texture

china

layered pattern

motif

"Man's Rank Badge" is a vibrant embroidered textile, possibly dating from 1880 to 1911, crafted by a Manchu artist. Housed in The Art Institute of Chicago, this small square depicts a leopard amidst a landscape of stylized clouds, flowers, and a sun, all set against a dark blue background. This intricate design, a key example of Manchu embroidery, would have been worn as a rank badge, showcasing the wearer's status within the Qing dynasty. The piece offers a glimpse into the rich visual culture of the Manchu people, with its meticulous detail and vibrant colors.