Liao Dynasty (907-1125 A.D.)

L11cm; W12cm

        Using a 4 doup end luo gauze for ground,the embroidered elements on this fragment are outlined in couching stitch with a single gold thread and then filled with satin stitch. The roundel shaped design is of a lovely pair of running deer in a forested scene, with trees on top and clouds on the sides. Crowned with the magic herb lingzhi and equipped with wings, one deer is running forward while the other responds by turning itshead. Some flowers and rocks are seen at the bottom in this dynamic scene. Excavated from the tomb of Yelu Yuzhi, this embroidery work reflects the Khitan landscape of deer roaming in autumn forests. (XY)