Mandarin Square

Square rank badge for back of Imperial Censor or Judge's robe. At center, the Xiezhi 獬豸, an mythological being symbolizing justice, with green mane and tail with orange flames sits on rock amidst waves. Precious items in the waves include pearls, fungus, and rhinoceros horn. Auspicious plants include peonies and fungus on one side and peaches and narcissus on the other. The sky is filled with clouds, five orange bats and a red sun against a blue-black background. Border of Greek fret pattern in couched gold thread. Satin stitch used primarily with details in stem stitch, split satin stitch, Peking knots and a couched silver tinsel thread wrapped in green silk. Appears to be from the Daoguang Period (1821-50 CE) based on the background elements.