Help with this Asian art piece.

Personally, I haven't seen an Asian art piece like this before. The paper on which it's done on is different. Is this rice paper? The picture itself is outlined with golden thread. The matting surround this is a very decorative silk.

Any ideas on what is written would be nice also. Thank you.

 

No thoughts on this piece?

 

You didn't ask what they are doing, but I think they are spinning plates in combination with flowing ribbons. I notice this page says "Many Chinese acrobatic troupes feature plate spinning, usually in combination with contortion or acrobatic skills."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plate_spinning

Nice picture on this page:
http://allthingscirque.com/cirqueacts/plate-spinners

I've found some photos also of Chinese acts with the ribbons, but haven't found a picture of the plates and ribbons in combination.

And I see there are some musicians in your picture, too. Maybe a celebration?

 

I was also thinking that it's about a celebration of some sort. Possibly something to do with a festival?


This piece looks all hand done.

 

the birth of rhythmic gymnastics.