Painting

Painting

Square of red silk on a paper backing. Four hand painted five-toed dragons outlined in black with silver detailing on the diagonal. Around the dragons are cloud patterns in black and silver and fire symbols in gold outlines possibly representing the breath of the dragons changing into moisture and fire. A five-toed dragon represents the imperia family. Overlaying the dragons in large heavy black ink strokes is the Chinese character for happiness. In the center under the calligraphy is a circle probably the flaming pearl another symbol of power. Red Chinese characters on back. HISTORY OF THE PIECE AS WRITTEN ON THE REVERSE SIDE: "Character Good Luck. Written after audience given by Empress Dowager Tsu- Shi for General Miles U.S. Army who gave orders to stop looting palaces in 1900 after Boxer Rebellion. Given to Mrs. Ragsdale who attended audience with Mr. and Mrs. Conger and Mrs. Miles." "Written by the Empress Dowager of China; presented to me at the audience given to Mrs. Miles wife of General Miles (1903) Commander in Chief. Two characters were given to each lady present and we saw the empress dowager write all the 18 characters. The Chinese said that she had never allowed anyone to see her write or paint." Written by Mrs. J.W. Ragsdale grandmother of donor. (see donor file)

1992.051