Overview
A charming example of 'Su Xiu' (Suzhou embroidery), featuring a hand-stitched panda on translucent silk. The piece is mounted in a rotating brass-toned frame set upon a cloisonné enamel base depicting a traditional dragon.
Preliminary identification
Suzhou Double-Sided Silk Embroidery Panda Desk Ornament
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Story
Suzhou artisans perfected the 'magic' of double-sided embroidery, hiding every knot so the image is perfect from both sides. This panda motif became a global icon of friendship during the 'Panda Diplomacy' era of the 1970s.
Maker / Origin
While likely from a specialized workshop in Suzhou, the red seal confirms its origin in China's premier embroidery capital. Su embroidery is celebrated for its 'four virtues': neatness, thinness, denseness, and smoothness.
Condition & Value
The silk and embroidery appear vibrant and well-protected. The metal frame shows light age-related patina, and the Phillips-head screw on the base confirms its mid-to-late 20th-century assembly. Excellent condition for its age. Value is based on the popularity of 'Panda-mania' collectibles and the intricate double-sided technique.
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Market Analysis
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.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD