Embroidered Tablecloth

Embroidered Tablecloth

　　  Chaozhou embroidery has a long history. Over ninety years ago, when the Shantou seaport was opened to the outside world, commercial prosperity led to rapid growth in handicrafts. Based on traditional Chaozhou embroidery and drawing inspiration from various regional lace styles, artisans gradually developed over eighty types of embroidery techniques—including padded embroidery, fine embroidery, intricate needlework, window draping, and paired threads—forming a distinctive artistic style unique to Chaozhou embroidery.

    The "Two Phoenixes Facing the Peony" embroidered tablecloth from Chao’an represents the pinnacle of Chaozhou embroidery craftsmanship. It features the traditional Chinese folk motif of “a vermilion phoenix facing a peony,” with the entire composition comprising 604 phoenixes, 352 peonies, along with numerous grapevines and floral patterns, arranged across eight layers. In terms of technique, it employs 38 traditional stitching methods such as padded embroidery and window darning, using vibrant green thread in varying shades to depict the four seasons. The design vividly captures 14 different postures of the phoenixes—singing, perching, dancing, and flying—while rendering the peonies in a rich variety of graceful forms.

    The "Two Phoenixes Facing the Peony" embroidered tablecloth from Chao’an is made from imported organdy fabric, which is transparent, crisp, and elegantly understated. However, due to fabric width limitations, it requires piecing together. The manufacturers have demonstrated exceptional craftsmanship in the seams, using special techniques to turn the joins into decorative patterns that enhance the three-dimensional effect, resulting in a more harmonious, aesthetically pleasing, and cohesive overall design. Because of its intricate patterns and complex stitching, the production of this tablecloth demands highly skilled female artisans proficient in these specialized techniques. Each piece requires meticulous workmanship and careful handling, with up to 1,540 workdays dedicated to each set. Its retail price is nearly ten thousand Hong Kong dollars.

    In 1980, at the 32nd International Handicrafts Expo held in Munich, West Germany, Chao’an’s high-end "Two Phoenixes Facing the Peony" embroidered tablecloth made of glass filament was awarded the Gold Medal.