One Hundred Birds Adore The Phoenix - Chinese Yue Embroidery.
mounted on plain cardboard and with a simple wooden frame. Date unknown. Some spotting to lower left corner, and a large patch of dampstaining to lower right. Will need remounting as the backing is made of ordinary cardboard.
SIZE: approx. 340 x 550 mm
This beautiful hand-embroidery depicts the theme of the Phoenix, a fabulous mythical bird associated with the worship of the sun.
Chinese Yue embroidery originated in the Pearl River Delta region, and can be traced back to the beginning of the 9th century. Yue embroidery needlework reveals meticulous handiwork. It has more than 30 stitches in seven categories. It was further developed after 1949. Generally speaking, the stitches of Chinese Yue embroidery are even and varied. The composition is thoughtful, neat and attractive. The colours are rich and bright, and the stitching is even and smooth. The beautiful gold and silver embroideries have a three dimensional quality.
Chinese Yue embroidery has a wide range of themes, but the most common are birds paying homage to the sun, dragons and phoenixes, peonies, pine trees and cranes, monkeys, deer, chickens, geese, and imitations of ancient paintings. Most of the embroidery items are suited for bedroom or as clothes, ornaments and furnishings.