In Plate [M], Fig. 8, is represented a medallion that closely resembles some of the earliest period; but the more accurate drawing and clearer definition of lines shows that it is a later copy. It is found in late Kang-hi pieces.
To this period, also, belongs the geometric pattern with swastikas represented in Plate [M], Fig. 9.
Another medallion with frets and dragon heads is shown in Plate M, Fig. 10. The particular rug from which it was copied was probably woven about the Yung-ching period; but there is little doubt that similar medallions appeared in older rugs.
In Figs. 11 and 12 of Plate [M], are represented two medallions with foliate designs that were largely employed in the early Keen-lung period. A comparison of the first with Fig. 13 of Plate [M], shows an interesting step in the evolution of the Chinese drawing.
A very different medallion pattern of the same age is shown in Plate [M], Fig. 14, in which an encircling border consists of cloud-bands.
Also during the Keen-lung time first appeared medallions with accurately drawn flower designs. One of this period is shown in Plate [M], Fig. 15. Wreath-like borders, such as are seen in this and the preceding one, are found in XVIII and XIX Century pieces.
CHINESE BORDER STRIPES
The knowledge that certain border stripes antedate others in definite sequence of time, is another aid in determining the age of Chinese rugs. As was seen to be the case with medallions, the earliest stripes were purely geometric. In others, still very old, appeared forms of conventionalised dragons, which again were replaced by simple scrolls and these by ornate floral forms. But it should be remembered that earlier designs were often copied in later rugs, so that the evidence of age is merely contributory.
Stripes containing the swastika meander were used almost exclusively in the oldest rugs. Figs. 1, 2, and 3 of Plate [N] (opp. Page 274), represent three old forms, which rarely appear in any pieces woven since the Kang-hi time. The pattern of Plate [N], Fig. 4, in which alternate swastikas are reversed, is also very old.
The usual drawing of the swastika stripe is shown in Plate [N], Fig. 5. It is found largely in Kang-hi rugs, and if used in more recent fabrics, is often accompanied by a stripe with some other pattern. As illustrated here, the facing of the swastika is reversed in the middle of the stripe.