This is a single framed artwork: a traditional Chinese ink and color painting on silk, depicting peonies (symbolizing prosperity and honor in Chinese culture) with accompanying green leaves, branches, and colorful butterflies (representing joy and transformation). The composition is in the Gongbi (meticulous brushwork) style, common in floral paintings from the late Qing or Republic era, emphasizing fine details, vibrant yet subtle colors, and harmonious balance. The painting is mounted on a beige silk or paper backing with subtle embroidered or patterned borders in pale pink floral motifs. It is housed in an ornate giltwood frame with carved details, giving it a classic Oriental aesthetic suitable for wall display. The overall condition appears excellent for its age, with no visible tears, fading, or insect damage on the visible silk; the frame shows minor age-appropriate wear like patina on the gold leaf. The back is covered in brown paper with wire hanging hardware, suggesting it was prepared for Western-style display.

This exquisite antique Chinese silk painting captures the timeless beauty of blooming peonies in soft pinks, whites, and subtle yellows, their layered petals unfurling gracefully amid lush green leaves and thorny branches, evoking abundance and imperial grace. Delicate butterflies in shades of blue, brown, and orange flutter nearby, adding whimsy and symbolizing fleeting beauty and romantic love. Rendered in meticulous Gongbi technique with ink outlines and soft color washes, the artwork exudes serenity and refinement, framed by elegant calligraphy at the top invoking poetic appreciation of nature's treasures. Two red seals – one for the "Hall of Worldly Treasures" studio and another for the "Studio of Precious Curiosities" – authenticate its artisanal roots. Encased in a 31" x 17" gilded wood frame with ornate molding, this piece transforms any space into a serene Oriental retreat, perfect for collectors of East Asian floral art.

Age: Late 19th to early 20th century (circa 1890–1930), Republic of China period, based on the silk mounting, export-style framing, and seal styles common in late Qing/early Republican floral exports. 

Usage: Primarily decorative wall art for home or office interiors, symbolizing wealth and harmony in feng shui. Originally likely a hanging scroll for seasonal display in a scholar's studio; now adapted for permanent framing in Western homes. Not functional beyond aesthetic and cultural display.

Origin: China, likely produced in a Suzhou or Hangzhou workshop for the export market or domestic literati, given the refined yet accessible style and bilingual framing cues.

Item dimensions: 31 1/8" tall × 17.25" wide × 7/8" deep  

Weight of item: 4 lb 10.6 oz