'Revival of Ancient Arts': Threads of a lustrous legacy

As a country with a rich history and splendid civilization, China has witnessed the passing down of numerous forms of intangible cultural heritage which continue to flourish to this day. China Daily recently launched the documentary series Revival of Ancient Arts, filming inheritors and modern artists who are dedicated to preserving and reviving ancient arts.

Su embroidery, renowned as one of the four best-known styles of Chinese embroidery, boasts a legacy spanning over 2,000 years. This intricate craft involves a meticulous process — from design selection, fabric mounting and sketching to thread selection and the art of embroidery itself. Recognized as a national-level intangible cultural heritage, Su embroidery has been lovingly passed down through successive generations.

In this episode, inheritors from Suzhou — the birthplace of Su embroidery in East China's Jiangsu province — as well as local artisans, showcase the intricate process of creating this ancient craft. They narrate their innovative and creative interpretations of Su embroidery, highlighting its rich cultural significance and contemporary relevance.