globe Atlas of Heritage
Civilization Object No. 020
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Shu Embroidery

蜀绣

A 2,000-year-old embroidery style from Sichuan, known for its smooth stitches, vibrant colors, and photo-realistic silk compositions.

dna Heritage DNA
history Origin

Han Dynasty (202 BCE–220 CE)

category Domain

traditional crafts

verified Level

UNESCO Intangible Heritage

pin_drop Region

Southwest China

pulse Status

active

person Key Masters
person

Cai Xiaoming

national

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Shu embroidery from Sichuan Province is one of China's four famous embroidery styles. Known for its smooth, even stitches and vibrant colors, Shu embroidery often depicts landscapes, flowers, birds, and animals. Using fine silk threads on silk or satin fabric, master embroiderers create pieces that are almost photographic in detail. The craft has been practiced for over 2,000 years, with techniques passed down through generations.

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Relationship Constellation

This heritage item connects to 8 entities across the atlas — masters, places, festivals, and stories.

person Cai Xiaoming inheritor pin_drop Chengdu location person Shu Embroidery media person Suzhou Embroidery ich person Han Dynasty dynasty person Bashu region person Shu Embroidery media person Shu Embroidery media
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Chinese Paper-Cut

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