IMPORTANT CHINESE TAPESTRY. Daoguang period. An exceptionally large ancient Chinese tapestry, consisting of several panels, executed in coloured silk satin stitch and gold thread on a background of red cotton and woollen felt. The upper panel, at the entrance, depicts a royal court in full regalia, with a Taoist priest seated aside in a gesture of respect and congratulations. On the right, an old scholar receives respect from two young scholars and a young scholar studies in the garden while his lady serves him tea. On the left, a senior official brings a set of court clothes to a man who appears to have been selected to join the court for an official position and two officials on horseback with assistants, displaying a flag (...) with writing signifying that someone has been selected to become a court servant. This selection process was usually conducted as part of the annual examination organised by the government, which was the highest goal and honour for most scholars in ancient China. The story of this upper panel may be part of the life story of the owner of this hanging. The central part of the hanging depicts a carefully composed summer garden scene, with a magnolia tree, peonies in bloom and two pheasants below, standing on grotto rocks. This is a magnificent early Chinese altar tapestry, which would originally have been hung on the front of a large altar or hung on the wall above and behind the altar. It is possible that it was used for a grand celebration of an important person. China. Early 19th century, circa 1820. Daoguang period. Height: 315 cm - Width: 345 cm