Chinese Red Jacket, 19th Century: Silk on silk. Size: 24'' x 52'' (61 x 132 cm). This exquisite red jacket originates from the Han Chinese tradition and served as a wedding garment for women. The front-facing flaps of the jacket are adorned with celebratory embroidery, creating a visually stunning effect. The predominant embroidery technique employed is satin stitch, featuring intricate floral patterns intertwined with bat motifs. Of particular note is the meticulous detailing of peaches, executed using the French knot or the "forbidden stitch," which earned its name due to being prohibited by imperial decree in 1910. This prohibition stemmed from the belief that practicing this stitch could lead to blindness. The peach motif holds profound symbolism in Chinese culture. It is closely associated with longevity, feminine beauty, and carries various subtle allusions to sexuality.

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