Miao Embroidered Jacket Taijiang, Guizhou. China.  Early to mid-20th century. 55½"x 36½." Dazi style embroidery and folded silk appliqué on heavy handspun cotton.  55½"across shoulders; 35½" shoulder to front hem;  62" around chest, measured when hanging straight.  The very heavy embroidery of flowers, birds and butterflies on this jacket is a combination of Seed Stitch  ("Forbidden Stitch") and overcast cording (see the detail photos).  Borders consist of small triangular folded bits of silk fabric and also handmade silk braid. This jacket can be worn as shown, or as the Miao woman would have worn it, with the front panels crossed diagonally.   $425 E-1130  Full front and back views below               Large detail photos

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