Embroidered Collar

This cloud collar, or yunjian, was made to be worn around the neck as an accessory over clothing, or sewn directly on to the robe. It was first created to keep food, oils, or dust off of clothing worn by nobles and people of high status.

The four-pointed cloud shape of the collar represents the universe. Embroidered images of women decorate each point, and architectural motifs are scattered throughout with florals and geometric shapes. The silk and metallic embroidery is done with satin, outline, and couched stitches.