Macanese Silk Embroidery

During the 18th and 19th centuries, trade with Europe flourished and workshops in Macau produced fabulous silks. This fine satin stitch embroidery with gold couched threads features a lotus flower, a symbol of purity and perfection. Around the lotus flower, find a pair of phoenixes which signify goodness and benevolence in China. Believed to be the messenger of the Gods, the appearance of the phoenix on earth presages happy times and propitious events. When depicted with a peony in its beak, it is said to be the harbinger of great wealth. At each corner of the bed cover is the mythical Chi Lin (the Chinese unicorn), which represents goodwill and gentleness.