Discover Cultured And Elegant Embroidery When Shopping In Beijing
Invention Development Advice - Business Identity and Artwork
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.
by AndyLao


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.

Admiring a piece of embroidery work, one can often imagine an ancient Chinese lady gracefully adding the finishing touches to her elegant design. No surprise needlework in China is referred to as "Nu Hong," or "Lady's Red." In fact, traditional Chinese embroidery is said to bring out the essence of feminine beauty: grace, elegance, and the richness and depth of a beautiful, mysterious inner world.

Of all the local embroidery styles in China, the "Four Major Embroideries" are the most famous. They are Su embroidery, Xiang embroidery, Yue embroidery, and Shu embroidery.

Su embroidery originated in the area around Suzhou, Jiangsu province. If you are looking for the most exquisite style of Chinese embroidery, this is it. People around the world seek Su embroidery for its exquisite patterns and unparalleled craftsmanship. Vivid colors, lifelike figures, and refined techniques are all the things that make it so famous. It is said that even real animals sometimes look dull when compared to the animals depicted on a Su embroidery work.

Xiang embroidery is produced in areas around Changsha, Hunan province. Some people regard this style as equal to Chinese ink and wash paintings. The inner beauty of things, not just their outside appearances, is vividly captured on the work. This is achieved by an excellent use of light and shadow which creates a three-dimensional effect. The use of space and solid imagery is also a classic feature of Chinese paintings. As a famous saying goes, a Xiang embroidery work can make "flowers give off fragrance, birds sing songs, tigers run, and figures come alive."

Yue embroidery is made in areas around Chaozhou, Guangdong province. While Su embroidery plays on subtlety, and Xiang embroidery focuses on inner beauty, Yue embroidery is direct and focuses on depicting outer beauty. The works show vivid patterns, vibrant colors, and closely arranged details.

Shu embroidery is produced in areas around Chengdu, Sichuan province. This style became popular very early in China's history. People who are familiar with Chinese culture can recall many scenes from the classic novel "The Romance of Three Kingdoms" where Shu embroidery works are sent to powerful generals as precious gifts. It is famous for its delicate colors, even stitching, and sophisticated craftsmanship. A lot of everyday items in China's market, like clothes, pillows, and quilts, are decorated with such embroidery.

There are other embroidery styles in China, including Gu embroidery, Long embroidery, Xinzhou embroidery, Jinnan embroidery, and a number of ethnic styles used by the different ethnic minority groups living in China.

When shopping for embroidery in Beijing, you don't have to watch out for "fakes," because there is not any one brand that produces "genuine" embroidery of any style. Instead, select high-quality items based on the material, the design, and the workmanship.

To keep the embroidery works you buy in good condition, remember to keep it in a dry place where there is sufficient air and not much sunshine. You can also ask the artists for advice or find a personal shopper when shopping in Beijing.

More information:

A. Lao has written about Chinese arts and crafts for years. He now works with a Beijing personal shopper who brings customers to special Chinese stores. Sometimes he personally tailors personal shopping trips.

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