Examination and interpretation of brocade with lion and playing music pattern on purple background in Tang Dynasty

In order to systematically interpret the brocade with lion and playing music pattern on purple background in Tang Dynasty, which is now treasured in the Shosoin Temple in Japan, explain its theoretical significance and artistic value.The background and pattern of the brocade fragments were comprehensively analyzed through literature research, field study, and other methods in the article, and it was concluded that the brocade with lion and playing music pattern on purple background was produced during the flourishing Tang Dynasty period;the pattern is based on lions, plants, and figures. The overall lion-centered design features, on each side, three music-playing figures wearing Tang Dynasty round-necked, wide-sleeved robes and Hu-style clothing, with Futou official-like scarf. The figures on the lion's left hold Pipa, waist drum, and Bili three instruments, while those on the right play Paixiao, copper cymbals, and vertical Konghou three instruments, the periphery is connected by peony scroll grass patterns; and organized in a longitudinal two-dimensional continuous form.The pattern of this fragment is different from the brocade patterns of other subjects, and the overall content of the picture shows a rare and unique form of composition in Tang Dynasty, which reflects the high artistic skill of Tang Dynasty brocade in designing complex patterns in realistic subjects. The realistic theme of this brocade pattern is an important evidence to restore the social life of the Tang Dynasty, and its research results will provide a reference for the genealogy of Tang Dynasty patterns in China.