Buyers flock to exquisite needlework
Print Edition
GU embroidery, a cultural heritage icon of Songjiang, is hot in auction markets. Last month on China’s 9th Cultural Heritage Day, two Gu embroidery pieces — the “Picture of Eight Children” and the “Monk Budai,” both made by master craftsman Qian Yuefang, were auctioned for 510,000 yuan (US$82,161) and 440,000 yuan, respectively.
The winning bidder was a retired bank clerk surnamed Zheng, who refused to give his full name.
“I love the embroidery, and I was determined to buy them at any cost, even if I had to sell my apartment,” he said.
Gu embroidery originated in the late Ming Dynasty (1368-1668). Known for its extreme delicacy, it later had a great influence on the country’s most famous four embroideries.
“The Eight Children” has a very auspicious meaning for Chinese because it speaks to the desire for children and happiness,” Zheng said. “Master Qian’s work is simply marvelous.”
The auction was held by Songjiang government. All the embroidery pieces up for sale were donated by the Songjiang Gu Embroidery Research Center.
At an earlier auction held by China Guardian Auctions, two Gu embroidery pieces created during the Ming Dynasty and once owned by General Chang Hsueh-liang (1901-2001) sold for 770,000 yuan and 440,000 yuan.
Last year, the embroidery “Buddha’s Portrait” was purchased by an overseas buyer for 338,800 yuan.
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