formed from two panels, the upper rectangular panel woven with a pair of phoenix surrounded by blossoming peony sprigs, enclosed on three sides by a border of archaistic phoenix scrolls, the lower panel woven with the bottom edge in the outline of an ogival arch, the spandrel field decorated with seven five-clawed dragons, one frontally facing, flanked by six in profile, surrounded by clouds and auspicious objects, edged with a border of scrolling lotus

Gift of Mrs. James Morton, 1971.

The front has scattered stains and wear overall. There are scattered tears, holes and pulls particularly to the left side. There is separation between the colors and there is restitching along the center seam. There is loose piping along the inner edge of the arch and the black piping is worn. There are tears to the top edge. The backing is worn, faded, stained and has a large tear.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Examples of similar door hangings are illustrated in Robert J. Jacobson, Imperial Silks: Ch'ing Dynasty Textiles in the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, vol. II, Minneapolis, 2000, nos. 481 and 482, where it is noted that such tapestries would have been hung from the tops of doorways during special occasions.