Manchu embroidery promoted to the world

Hosted by Liaoning news publishing import and export company and Liaoning Education Press, a promotion ceremony was held during Beijing International Book Fair, on Aug 24, to introduce Manchu embroidery to the world.

Manchu embroidery, which is listed as a State-level intangible cultural heritage, is a unique embroidery skill which originated in Shenyang, capital of Northeast China’s Liaoning province.

After Hong Taiji (1592-1643), the second emperor of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), proclaimed himself emperor in 1636 in Shenyang, Manchu embroidery became a symbol of royal culture and status, and officials felt honored if they were given an item of Manchu embroidery.

Representing Liaoning province, Manchu embroidery has been promoted overseas on many occasions. This year, the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries brought 200 Manchu embroidery pieces to exhibitions in Europe.

At the ceremony, a publishing project for Manchu embroidery was also launched, which includes the publishing of online and offline courses, audio books, and cultural and creative products related to Manchu embroidery, as well as training sessions, exhibitions, and poverty alleviation activities.

According to Liaoning Education Press, three books about Manchu embroidery will be published, including a teaching manual, a piece of Manchu embroidery featuring the text of Ode of Shengjing ––composed by Emperor Qianlong (1711-1799, the sixth emperor of the Qing Dynasty) –– and a Manchu embroidery clothing collection featuring 975 characters from A Dream in Red Mansions, one of the four great classical novels of China.

The three books generated significant interest among foreign journalists at the event, with Arabic translations expected.

Models showcase clothing with Manchu embroidery at the promotion ceremony in Beijing, Aug 24. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]