A Ming dynasty carpet, believed to have been placed under the dragon throne of the emperor, has been sold for a record-breaking $7.16 million (approximately 162 billion VND) during an online auction by Christie’s.
This makes it the most expensive carpet ever sold by Christie’s, according to the South China Morning Post (SCMP).
Dragon design embroidered on the carpet.
The carpet sold for $1.75 million more than its estimated value. It was woven in the 16th century and features prominently embroidered images of two five-clawed dragons. These dragons symbolize the power and fortune of the emperor.
Above the two dragons is a scene of a cloudy sky, while below are cities interspersed with hills. A prominently embroidered image of a pearl is located in the center of the carpet.
The carpet is believed to have been placed under the Ming emperor’s dragon throne.
The identity of the buyer has not been disclosed, but according to Christie’s, the carpet has ultimately returned to Asia.
“This valuable carpet, woven during the golden age of the Ming dynasty (1368-1644), is a rare surviving artifact, and its historical significance has attracted much attention,” Christie’s stated.
The carpet is one of only 39 surviving carpets from the Ming dynasty, but only 16 of those feature dragon embroidery.
Nine of the dragon-embroidered carpets are currently on display at the Palace Museum in Beijing.
The remaining seven carpets, including the one just sold, are in private collections.
The entire carpet.
An American couple purchased this Ming carpet during their honeymoon in China in 1920 and later lent it to the Cleveland Museum of Art in Ohio, USA.
When the couple sold their art collection, the carpet was bought by a private collector in Switzerland, who just sold it on November 23.
