Curiosity Related to Embroidery

** Silk

Embroidery always accompanies silk and its development. Information on Chinese silk includes the origin of the silk, silk culture, the spread of silk throughout the world, and some interesting facts about silk.

The source of commercial silk comes from a caterpillar native to Asia, which spins silk cocoons of fine, strong, and lustrous fiber. The cultivation of the silkworm can be traced back to the 3rd century BC. It was said that Demigod Leizu, a legendary figure of prehistoric China, started the planting of mulberry trees and cultivation of silkworms. According to archeological discovery, silk and silk fabrics emerged at least 5,500 years ago.

In the Zhou Dynasty (11th century-256BC), a special administration was set up to manage sericulture and silk production. From 138 to 126 BC, Zhang Qian started his diplomatic mission under imperial order to the West along the famous Silk Road. Gradually, sericulture and silk production techniques spread to many countries. Now, Chinese silk still enjoys high reputation in the world.

** Renowned Schools of Embroidery

The most famous embroideries in China are Su Xiu in Jiangsu, Xiang Xiu in Hunan, Shu Xiu in Sichuan, and Yue Xiu in Guangdong, namely the Four Renowned Embroideries.

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