19TH CENTURY

During the Qianlong period, Gathering at the Turquoise Pond (yao chi) was frequently the subject of large textile hangings in both tapestry weave (kesi) and embroidery made for the occasion of imperial birthdays. The depiction of the Daoist paradise on Mount Kunlun populated by the God of Longevity (Shoulao) and the Eight Immortals (Baxian) with their attendants awaiting the arrival the Queen Mother of the West (Xiwangmu) riding on a phoenix by extension carried, along with such a gift, wishes for the long life of the recipient.