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Detail of Chinese silk found in a Scythian tomb
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Detail of Chinese silk found in a Scythian tomb
Detail of Chinese silk found in the tomb of a Scythian chief at Pazyryk, Altai, Russia. This is the earliest known Chinese silk surviving in good condition. It is embroidered with phoenixes and partridges in chain-stitch on a silk tussore with a linen weave and approximately fifty threads per centimetre. In the Hermitage Museum in Leningrad
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Media ID 14855839
© CM Dixon / Heritage-Images
Embroidered Hermitage Museum Linen Mausoleum Oriental Pazryk Phoenix Scythian Scythian Art Siberia Artistic Movement Mike Dixon Mythical Beast Mythical Creature
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This print showcases a remarkable detail of Chinese silk discovered within the tomb of a Scythian chief at Pazyryk, Altai, Russia. Preserved in pristine condition, this piece represents the earliest known surviving Chinese silk. The fabric is adorned with exquisite embroidery depicting majestic phoenixes and graceful partridges using chain-stitch technique. Woven with approximately fifty threads per centimeter on a silk tussore featuring a linen weave, this masterpiece exemplifies the skilled craftsmanship of its time. Currently housed in the renowned Hermitage Museum in Leningrad, this artifact offers an intriguing glimpse into both Scythian art and ancient Chinese culture. The mythical creatures depicted symbolize power and rebirth while showcasing the oriental influence that transcended geographical boundaries during that era. The discovery of such an extraordinary textile within a mausoleum highlights its significance as part of burial rituals and beliefs surrounding death. Its vibrant colors and intricate details speak volumes about the importance placed on beauty even in times associated with mourning. With Siberia's Pazryk serving as its final resting place for centuries, this delicate fabric has now found sanctuary within one of the world's most prestigious museums. Thanks to dedicated individuals like CM Dixon who captured this image, we can marvel at its splendor today without commercial intentions but rather appreciate it as an invaluable testament to our shared human history.
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