This pair of embroidered curtains for the wedding bed is created using metallic thread couching, raised metallic thread couching and satin stitching. The design contains bold phoenix and ‘Qilin’ (mythical hooved Chinese creature) motifs created with glittering gold thread couching. These, together with the peony blossoms, are auspicious symbols in Chinese culture. Couching is a technique in which the materials are laid on the surface of a ground fabric and kept in place with stitches of the same or different thread. Phoenixes represent virtue and grace, while peony blossoms depict wealth and prosperity. The ‘Qilin’ is considered a good omen as it brings good fortune. Large panels such as these were seldom hand sewn by Nonyas themselves but were more likely to be ordered from professional Chinese embroiderers in China. The auspicious symbols suggest that they were used during wedding ceremonies.
