Pair Of Chinese Yuan Shikai Roundels, 1912-1916. Silk on silk. Size: Each: 9'' x 9'' (23 x 23 cm). When he became the first president of the Republic of China in 1912, Yuan Shikai wanted to emulate the old imperial ranking system. These roundels were made to be worn by officials on their robes during ceremonies and seasonal rituals. Both the amount of symbols on the roundels and the amount of roundels worn signify the rank of the wearer – seven being the lowest, twelve being the highest. These roundels each have seven silk embroidered symbols – the fu in the center surrounded by a libation cup, fire, seaweed, a pheasant, grain, and an axe. The symbols are enveloped in clouds on a silk ground.

This is a NO RESERVE AUCTION: there are no hidden or confidential reserves, all acceptable bidding commences at the online START PRICE. Please let us know if you would like to receive a condition report or have any specific questions regarding the condition of a lot. Condition reports will be sent during the week prior to the auction, and can be requested via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone: 215-438-4700. Absence of a statement to condition in the description does not construe a statement of any kind. Please refer to Terms and Conditions of the sale.