Chinese embroidery is one of the world's oldest art forms. Even though archaeological evidence suggest artist started producing this work in the Zhou dynasty, some people believe it first appeared much earlier than that. The Ming dynasty is the period that saw the most development of this art. For hundreds of years, merchants have been transporting beautiful Chinese embroidery work to every corner of the world. When shopping in Beijing, remember to check out the exquisite work in the many embroidery shops around town.
In China, embroidery needlework is often referred to as "Nu Hong," or "Lady's Red," and there is a reason for this. Most embroidery work is created by women, this is for sure. But the amazing thing is these works perfectly bring out the true elements of feminine beauty: grace, elegance, and depth. Admire the details on one work, and you can feel like a beautiful, ancient Chinese lady is speaking to you with her soft, elegant voice.
There are four major styles of Chinese embroidery, each with its distinctive characteristics: Su embroidery, Xiang embroidery, Yue embroidery, and Shu embroidery.
Su embroidery is produced in areas around Suzhou, Jiangsu province. It is the most well-known of all styles, and the most intricate. The works often show animals, natural landscapes, and ancient Chinese gardens. Subtle yet refined colors make the people and animals look especially vivid and lifelike. One famous work shows a cat with bright eyes and smooth, fluffy hair that looks so beautiful and lifelike, a real cat would look dull in comparison.
Xiang embroidery originated in areas around Changsha, Hunan province. Of all styles, this style bears the closest resemblance to Chinese brush painting. You can often appreciate the same kind of void and solid imagery found in a traditional Chinese painting. Its excellent use of contrast of light and shade creates an impressive three-dimensional effect. All of this helps bring out the inner beauty of things. It is said that on a Xiang embroidery work, "Flowers give off fragrance, birds sing songs, tigers run, and figures come alive."
Yue embroidery is crafted in areas around Chaozhou, Guangdong province. This style is famous for its vivid patterns and vibrant colors. Unlike Xiang embroidery that focuses on bringing out the inner spirits of things, Yue embroidery emphasizes on depicting the outer beauty of objects. On a piece, all the details are closely arranged to contribute meaning to the main theme, with very little space left unworked.
Shu embroidery is the local style of Sichuan province. It became famous as a kind of artwork as early as the Eastern Han dynasty. For hundreds of years it remained the most popular embroidery style in China. A lot of people like it for its delicate colors and very regular stitching. Many everyday items in China's markets, like quilts, pillows, and clothes are decorated with Shu embroidery.
Other Chinese embroidery styles include Gu embroidery, Long embroidery, Xinzhou embroidery, Jinnan embroidery, and many ethnic embroideries.
When shopping, look for embroidery work that uses high quality thread, has intricate designs, and demonstrates a high level of workmanship. The notion of fake work doesn't apply here, since any style can be used by anyone to create embroidery items.
To keep your embroidery in a good condition for a long time, put it in a spot that is well ventilated and protected from sunlight. When shopping in Beijing, you'll find yourself better off being helped by an expert or a personal shopping assistant to find for the best embroidery products.
There are four major styles of Chinese embroidery, each with its distinctive characteristics: Su embroidery, Xiang embroidery, Yue embroidery, and Shu embroidery.
Su embroidery is produced in areas around Suzhou, Jiangsu province. It is the most well-known of all styles, and the most intricate. The works often show animals, natural landscapes, and ancient Chinese gardens. Subtle yet refined colors make the people and animals look especially vivid and lifelike. One famous work shows a cat with bright eyes and smooth, fluffy hair that looks so beautiful and lifelike, a real cat would look dull in comparison.
Xiang embroidery originated in areas around Changsha, Hunan province. Of all styles, this style bears the closest resemblance to Chinese brush painting. You can often appreciate the same kind of void and solid imagery found in a traditional Chinese painting. Its excellent use of contrast of light and shade creates an impressive three-dimensional effect. All of this helps bring out the inner beauty of things. It is said that on a Xiang embroidery work, "Flowers give off fragrance, birds sing songs, tigers run, and figures come alive."
Yue embroidery is crafted in areas around Chaozhou, Guangdong province. This style is famous for its vivid patterns and vibrant colors. Unlike Xiang embroidery that focuses on bringing out the inner spirits of things, Yue embroidery emphasizes on depicting the outer beauty of objects. On a piece, all the details are closely arranged to contribute meaning to the main theme, with very little space left unworked.
Shu embroidery is the local style of Sichuan province. It became famous as a kind of artwork as early as the Eastern Han dynasty. For hundreds of years it remained the most popular embroidery style in China. A lot of people like it for its delicate colors and very regular stitching. Many everyday items in China's markets, like quilts, pillows, and clothes are decorated with Shu embroidery.
Other Chinese embroidery styles include Gu embroidery, Long embroidery, Xinzhou embroidery, Jinnan embroidery, and many ethnic embroideries.
To keep your embroidery in a good condition for a long time, put it in a spot that is well ventilated and protected from sunlight. When shopping in Beijing, you'll find yourself better off being helped by an expert or a personal shopping assistant to find for the best embroidery products.
About the Author:
A. Lao has written about Chinese arts and crafts for years. He now works with a Personal Shopper in Beijing who helps tourists find unique Chinese items. Sometimes he plans shopping trips in Beijing.
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