Cotton slippers embroidered with wisteria flowers (Ziteng). The Chinese name ‘Ziteng’ means ‘purple vine’ and refers to the abundant purple flowers of this plant. Wisteria flowers are symbolic for a high official rank because official seals had purple cords attached to them. These slippers date from the end of the Qing period (1644 – 1912) or early Republic period (1912 – 1947). Length 25 cm. Width 8.4 cm. Height 7.5 cm.