Europe, possibly Portugal, with Chinese influence, 17th century Linen embroidered with polychrome silk and gilt-paper-wrapped thread Inv. 176 This large cloth was believed for a long time to be a dais carpet of Oriental origin in reference to the peninsular custom whereby women would sit on these structures, but upon further study it was found to have an entirely different function and origin. Today, the piece is thought to have been made in Europe or even in Portugal, inspired by Chinese textiles, and it was almost certainly intended to decorate a sophisticated setting, either hanging from a wall or being used as a quilt. Made from linen embroidered with polychrome silk and paper-wrapped thread, it is densely decorated with floral and animal motifs (birds, phoenixes, lions, rabbits), which completely fill the field and border. An embroidered peony takes pride of place in the centre, surrounded by majestic phoenixes.