Embroidered Pair of Sleeve Bands

An unfinished sleeve band decoration. The embroidery is worked in satin and stem stitch. The embroidery is treated naturally and is indebted to styles that evolved in Central Asia and Western China during the 11th through 13th C.

The design evokes nature, birds, and butterflies in flight. Floral and animal images were significant components of the Chinese decorative repertory since the late Zhou dynasty later revitalized during the northern and southern Song dynasties.