With a remarkable history spanning 2000 years, Sichuan – or Shu – embroidery is one of what’s locally referred to as the ‘Four Famous Embroideries of China’. Together with Suzhou (Su), Hunan (Xiang), and Guangdong (Yue) embroidery, Sichuan embroidery includes over 130 different types of stitches. Originating from the folk people living in the west of Sichuan province, Sichuan embroidery is characterized by meticulous stitching, smooth edges, bright colors, and a silky texture. It typically conveys many images forming part of Sichuan culture, people, and natural motifs, including leaves, flowers, animals, people, mountains, and rivers. Just one carp – a design found on many artworks – can require a month of embroidery and 250,000 stitches.
A delicately fine art, Sichuan embroidery now blends with the practical and can be found on quilts, bed linen, coats, and screens. A small piece of art that can be framed beautifully and adorn a wall or shelf as a treasure to keep your travel memories alive.