A Chinese Silk Rug Woven with a circular scalloped medallion containing a writhing dragon on a field of scrolling blossoms with similar dragon-filled spandrels, all within a keyfret border, with an inscription at the top end. The five character woven inscription at the top of this carpet indicates that it was made for Imperial use at the Taihedian beiyong (Great Hall of Supreme Harmony) in the Forbidden City. Great Hall of Supreme Harmony is the large main hall situated at the heart of the Forbidden City where all important official receptions were conducted, including an emperor’s coronation, weddings, birthdays, and for the receiving of foreign dignitaries. Whether or not the carpet was actually used in the Palace is unknown. Period: late 19th century. Measurement: 250 x 155 cm.