Chinese Embroidery History
The history of silk begins in China--silkworms were domesticated as early as 5000 years ago. Silk, in textile and embroidery form, were the main products transported along the ancient Chinese Silk Road. The production of silk thread and fabrics gave rise to the art of embroidery. Simple embroidery decoration was customarily worked on wool, linen, and hemp cloth from Neolithic period.
The oldest embroidered product in china on record dates from Shang Dynasty. It was not until later on, as the national economy developed, that embroidery entered the lives of the common people.
Embroidery is a brilliant pearl in Chinese art. From the magnificent Dragon Robe worn by Emperors to the popular embroidery seen in today's fashion, it adds so much pleasure to our life and our culture. We are going to review our embroidery developments from different periods in Chinese history and share some diagrams with you.
