Panel

This silk panel is embroidered with floral motifs of lotus blossoms and a pair of birds on a red satin ground. The contours of the various elements are made of gilded leather. The use of leather is very unusual. The panel was probably produced in Central Asia or China during the Mongol or Yuan period (6th–8th century AH/13th–14th century CE), when China was under Mongol rule. The nomadic heritage of Mongol culture made silk attractive, as it was light and easy to transport, making it ideal for a nomadic lifestyle. Although the precise function is unclear, the panel – of which there is another, almost identical example in MIA’s collection – may have been designed as a saddle cover.