Silk was reportedly discovered in China around 2640 B.C. According to archaeological reports, silk garments were discovered around 5,000 years ago. Today the majority of silk production is still in China. Hand embroidery has a long tradition in Chinese arts and crafts. The following images are 'Xiang embroideries' from Hunan Province, South China and are among the most famous in the world.

Hand embriodery in Hunan has a long history, although it incorporates traditions of Su embroidery of Jiangsu and Yue embriodery of Guangdong. Xiang embroidery has developed into a world-leader in Single-Face and Double-Face embroidery. In Single-Face embroidery the patterns appear on one side of the silk and in Double-Face embroidery the technique involves patterns appearing on both sides of the silk panel.

 
The images shown are of Single-Faced embroidery. (A wide range of pictures are available)
Please contact us for more information.

• Silk panels can be customised to a particular design for customer.
• Ideal gifts for birthday or Christmas.
• We import brocade fabric, ideal for soft furnishings or clothing, both mixed brocades and pure silks.
• We import plain silk fabric, of all colours.
• We import fresh-water pearls and pearl necklaces, of the highest quality and of good value for the customer.