Silk from the Qing dynasty

Kesi works are crowned as the best of woven fabrics. Kesi (literally “carved silk”) is a meticulous, technically demanding silk weaving method that adds an “engraved” effect to patterns by using thread.

This large tapestry (164.5×118.6 cm) from the Qing dynasty depicts the birthday banquet for the Queen Mother of the West. 15 immortals are attending, pictured in their distinctive styles, including the God of Longevity, Dongfang Shuo and the Eight Immortals.