Chinese Military Rank Badge, Fifth Rank, Embroidered on Silk and Framed, Qing Dynasty, early 20th century

A square Chinese military rank badge embroidered in reds, pinks, greens, greys and blues on black silk. It shows a bear, denoting fifth rank. The badge has been mounted with a traditional band of green Chinese silk, set off in a dark mount board and gilt frame. Military rank badges are rarer than civil badges. This is likely because the military was exclusively Manchu to ensure the stability of the Manchu/Qing government over the Han Chinese and was not viewed in a positive light during the Qing dynasty. When it was overthrown by the republican revolution in 1911, the military were particularly singled out for retribution. To avoid detection, military men would destroy their official clothing. In contrast, the Chinese civil officials and scholars were largely Han and were incorporated into the new republican government.

The satin stiches and silk are in very good condition.

Rank badges were worn as signifiers of civil, military, or imperial court rank throughout the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing dynasties (1644–1912). There were nine ranks each for civil and military positions. This is a back badge, as the front badge would have been split down the middle for the robe opening. The bear symbolizes strength and courage, and is an auspicious animal. Though indigenous to China, it is still normally shown with mythical flames extending from its body. The bear looks similar to a lion or second rank, but does not have curls at the ends of its mane or tail. It is standing on a rock amidst waves. In the water are fungus, pearls and other lucky jewels and on either side are rocky banks with peonies, marigolds, peaches and narcissus plants. Two bats and clouds fill the sky. The bear is facing the sun, a symbol of the Emperor, which is depicted in the upper right corner because military officials were seated to the Emperor‘s right.