Hanging with Figures from a Chinese Opera: probably Fighting at the Four Gates of the City, China, Qing Dynasty, 1800s. Silk and metal thread embroidery on wool; 49 x 133 in. Neusteter Textile Collection at the Denver Art Museum: Gift of William Sterne, by exchange, 1950.1.

height: 49 in, 124.4600 cm; width: 133 in, 337.8200 cm

Avenir Institute of Textile Arts and Fashion

Textile Arts and Fashion-Asian

Liu Jinding, the maiden warrior shown at center, is the heroine of this story which unfolds prior to the founding of the Song Dynasty (960-1279). While seeking a husband, she engaged and defeated in battle the man who would become her spouse, Gao Junbao, pictured to her right. Through combats, trials, and near death experience, love prevails against all odds. This message, coupled with events in the story that embody loyalty to the State and filial piety, makes this opera a favorite to perform at wedding banquets.

Exchanged December 1950 via Sarkisian's, Denver, CO and Denver Art Museum

• "Threads of Heaven: Silken Legacy of China's Last Dynasty," October 30, 2011 - January 29, 2012 (DAM)
• "Threads of Heaven: Silken Legacy of China's Last Dynasty," Februrary 7 - May 18, 2014 (Taft Museum, Cincinnati, OH)