This is a spectacular and huge embroidered silk Chinese export shawl from the twenties. The floral design is particularly bright and vivid on this one and those brilliant pops of color are perfectly offset by the black silk backdrop. It is a spectacular explosion of flowers, birds and butterflies done in a satin stitch. The colors are as vibrant as the day it was done. Very dramatic and so wearable - you can use it as an evening cape or coat by adding a well placed brooch or use it in your home as a show-stopping accessory. The stitching appears to be primarily machine stitch with some finishes done by hand.

It is edged all the way around with a 20" inch hand knotted silk fringe border. The fringe is in good overall condition with minor wear/tangles to the ends which is normal for these. The inner silk embroidered square measures 60" x 60" making at a total of 80" square

This was lovingly stored properly and is in excellent condition despite being almost 100 years later. Any wear is natural patina and only adds to the beauty of this fabric.

Item #C440

Reference Photos: Cherie, Owner of Shrimpton Couture, for her weekly style column on our blog Curated. (Photos by Erin Leydon)

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.