Rank Badge (buzi)
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
c. 1500–1550
This object is a Chinese textile rank badge (buzi), also known as a mandarin square, dating to circa 1500–1550 during the Ming dynasty. Woven from silk using a slit tapestry weave technique known as kesi, the badge measures 32 by 36.1 cm.
The rectangular tapestry features a pictorial design executed in polychrome silk threads. The composition depicts two birds, with one positioned centrally near the lower section and another flying above, set against horizontal bands, stylized swirling cloud formations, and large stylized floral blossoms. The palette incorporates shades of blue, pink, tan, cream, and green.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Historical context
Rank badges were introduced during the Ming dynasty following 1391 clothing regulations that mandated court officials wear decorative insignia indicating status, with birds assigned to civil officials and animals to military officials. These badges were typically woven in pairs and affixed to the front and back of ceremonial robes, with an official's wife wearing mirrored designs. This badge was acquired by the Cleveland Museum of Art in 1985 from Lisbet Holmes Textiles in London.
Physical characteristics
- Material
- silk; slit tapestry weave (kesi)
- Dimensions
- Overall: 32 x 36.1 cm (12 5/8 x 14 3/16 in.)
Technical characteristics
- Culture recorded
- China, Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
Identification
- Source note
- Transcribed from the Cleveland Museum of Art collection record for this single object; how far it represents a wider collectible type has not been independently verified.
- Museum object name
- Rank Badge (buzi)
- Museum object number
- 1985.32
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.