1920s Black & Ivory “Yin-Yang” Embroidered Silk Piano Shawl

A truly breathtaking and exceptionally rare antique piano shawl from the 1920s, worked in an extraordinary black-and-ivory contrasting colourway reminiscent of yin and yang.

The silk ground features exquisite hand embroidery in soft ivory thread — lush peonies, delicate blossoms and trailing vines — with a beautifully fluid drape. The border is finished in an incredible black-and-white hand-knotted macramé netting and exceptionally long, dramatic two-tone fringe. A true Art Deco statement piece of museum calibre.

These two-tone designs are among the most coveted within the tradition of Canton-embroidered piano shawls — extremely hard to find today, especially in this magnificent scale and over 100 years old.

Styling

Wear as a show-stopping wrap over a simple slip dress, as a performance or bridal piece, or display it at home as wearable art. Perfect for collectors and lovers of historical luxury.

Condition

Beautiful condition for its age. Light marks and a few tiny pinholes are present — all fully reflected in the price. Due to its age and delicacy, the marks have deliberately not been treated, as they lend a touch of authentic patina. They may be reduced by a specialist if desired. Fringing has some natural tangling after a century of life. Overall an exceptionally rare textile preserved wonderfully.

Measurements

Spread out including fringe: approx. 215 cm

Fringe length: approx. 50 cm

Silk panel: approx. 115 cm