Silk Embroidery in China

While machine embroideries may visually resemble their hand-embroidered counterparts, these four hidden truths shed light on the distinctions between the two. Knowledgeable consumers can make informed decisions, appreciating the rich heritage of hand embroidery while recognizing the value and limitations of machine-produced silk embroideries.

Suzhou embroidery is a rich and intricate art form that encompasses a wide range of stitching techniques, each with its own characteristics and applications. From the traditional stitches like plain and back stitches to more modern and creative approaches like crisscross stitch, Suzhou embroidery offers endless possibilities for artistic expression. 

In this article, we'll delve into the methods and clues that can help you unlock the secrets of dating the Chinese silk embroidery artworks.

Double Sided Silk Embroidery, often referred to as "shuang mian xiu" in Chinese, is a traditional Chinese art form that dates back over a thousand years. It is characterized by the meticulous stitching of intricate designs on both sides of a translucent silk fabric...

We should also remember the contribution made by those unknown embroidery ladies working in the embroidery villages in Suzhou. Some of them have talents and skills in silk embroidery parallel to the well known embroidery artists.

Let's take a closer look at the essential instruments employed in the craft of Suzhou embroidery.

Embroidery, in the present day, finds its purpose in decoration, fashion, and everyday items. Adorning your home or office with a meticulously crafted Chinese Su embroidery piece not only evokes an Oriental spirit but also imparts vibrancy

These remarkable embroidery pieces are hailed as great works of art, and many of them demand an extensive commitment, taking from a year to a year and a half to complete. They are often sold for thousands of dollars, and while smaller pieces are available at a more affordable price point

The system of symbolism extended to official gowns, with rank patches, known as "buzi" in Chinese, adorning the front and back. These embroidered rank patches featured an array of animals, each design signifying the wearer's position

By amalgamating her diverse experiences, including Japanese embroidery techniques and Western sketching and oil painting methods from Europe and America, Shen set a groundbreaking standard for Chinese embroidery.