Ornamental hangings

This pair of ornamental hangings, also referred to as ‘gewgaws’, is made up of three padded medallions arranged vertically with long and colourful tassels. They are created using silk thread embroidery. The motifs of these medallions include flowers in purple and blue outlined with gold thread embroidery as well as a triangular shaped design with floral motifs within. The ornaments come in sets of three to present the “Three Abundances” (happiness, good luck and long life) or “The Three Good Wishes” (long life, riches and honour). These were hung in pairs before the entrance into the four poster wedding bed and were meant to convey good wishes and tidings to the wedding couple.