Yue Embroidery

Among all the embroidery styles of China, the Guangdong style (Yue is the short term for Guangdong) may be the most special. It originated from the Li, an ethnic group that lives in the area, and the needlework is traditionally done by men. Apart from its use of silk and floss, Guangdong embroidery is also known for its creative use of special materials such as peacock feathers and horsehair.

It is said that this style was one of the first to travel overseas, when in 1514, during the Ming Dynasty, Portuguese merchants brought back some pieces as a tribute to their king.

Influenced by traditional folk art, Yue embroidery formed its own unique characteristics. The embroidered pictures are mainly of dragons and phoenixes, and flowers and birds, with neat designs and strong, contrasting colors.

A piece of Yue embroidery is displayed at a national exhibition portraying China's achievements in protecting its intangible cultural heritage, February 2012.[Photo/IC]

Sichuan in stitches	Shu brocade weaved in China's Chengdu	Cross-stitch work of 'Riverside Scene at the Qingming Festival'