CIRCA: early 1800’s -1850
A Ningxia seating mat displaying the age old Yin and Yang symbol, that was either used as a base when meditating, or on a small altar, and possibly once was part of a longer runner. The Yin and Yang sign symbolises the light and dark, the good and evil, the female and male, etc. energy. It originated in ancient Chinese philosophy where opposite forces are seen as interconnected and counterbalancing. It symbolises harmony. The outer border is ringed with precious jewels, will the main field is made up of interconnected swastika (wan in Chinese) that enclose the central Yin / Yang design. All natural dyes with still strong colours. In good condition although with wear commensurate with its age. [A similar example can be seen published in the small 1998 catalogue entitled Ningxia Rugs by Teresa Coleman Fine Arts.]