Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A vibrant silk embroidery depicting the 'One Hundred Boys' motif, a traditional symbol of prosperity and family lineage. The scene features numerous figures engaged in play, music, and celebration, rendered in colorful silk threads against a golden-tan silk ground.
Story
The 'One Hundred Boys' theme dates back to the Zhou Dynasty, celebrating King Wen's large family. It became a popular wish for fertility and success. This mid-century example continues a 3,000-year-old tradition of textile storytelling.
Maker / Origin
While the specific workshop is unidentified, this piece follows the traditions of Suzhou embroidery (Su Xiu), known for its delicate use of split silk threads. These workshops often specialized in auspicious themes for the export and domestic gift markets during the mid-century period.
Condition & Value
The embroidery appears well-preserved behind glass, though there is visible rippling in the silk ground, which is common for tensioned textiles. The frame shows minor edge wear. Significant fading from UV light would reduce value by 50%. Value is driven by the scale of the piece and the complexity of the 'One Hundred Boys' motif.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.