Entry/Object ID
080 ChineseDescription
An elaborately embroidered Chinese bed hanging depicting the mythical three-legged toad (Jin Chan), a traditional symbol of wealth, prosperity, and good fortune. The whimsical creature is fashioned from dark green silk and decorated with intricate Beijing (Peking) stitch embroidery, featuring scrolling gold-colored outlines, circular motifs in pink and ivory, and colorful ornamental detailing. Its exaggerated form includes protruding legs, a prominent eye, and playful decorative flourishes, with additional multicolored silk threads and textile embellishments. Suspended from a green silk cord with a small embroidered ornament above, the hanging terminates in a long, pale sage-green silk tassel secured with decorative wrapped bindings.
In Chinese folklore, the three-legged toad is closely associated with the immortal Liu Hai and is believed to attract wealth and abundance. Such auspicious textile ornaments were traditionally suspended from beds, furnishings, or interior architectural elements to invite prosperity and provide symbolic protection.Acquisition
Acquisition Method
PurchaseAmount Paid
$200.00Date
Nov 14, 1991Acquired From
Jon Eric RiisNotes
Item listed on page 8Name/Title
#80 Chinese Three-Legged Toad Bed Hanging