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China

Throne decoration 1800-60

Yellow metal | 11.0 x 20.7 cm (whole object) | RCIN 98198

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Throne decoration

China

Throne decoration 1800-60

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  • Description

    A brass rectangular plaque with a symmetrical repoussé design of two dragons above a mountainous landscape, within a border of regular circular ornamentation.
    Provenance

    According to an accompanying note, this plaque was taken from the back of the Chinese Emperor's throne (known as the 'Dragon Throne') at Yuanmingyuan, the 'Old Summer Palace' in Peking (now Beijing), in 1860. It was sent to General Charles George Gordon (1833-1885) by a servant named J. McDonald in 1880.

    A similar plaque, dating from the reign of Emperor Shunzhi (r.1644-1661), was taken by General Gordon in 1862 and later presented to Queen Victoria (RCIN 83724).

    In 1860, Allied (British and French) troops were involved in the sacking of Yuanmingyuan outside Peking (now Beijing) following the Second Opium War. A variety of works of art were taken and later distributed via a prize sale; this plaque may have been among them.

  • People involved

    Creator(s)
    Search the collection China
    (nationality)

  • Physical properties

    Medium and techniques

    Yellow metal

    yellow metal
    Measurements

    11.0 x 20.7 cm (whole object)

  • Groupings

    Category
    Object type(s)

The income from your ticket contributes directly to The Royal Collection Trust, a registered charity. The aims of The Royal Collection Trust are the care and conservation of the Royal Collection, and the promotion of access and enjoyment through exhibitions, publications, loans and educational activities.