Jin-silk Socks with Embroidered Intertwined Vine Pattern

Similar to the jin-silk socks with woven characters “延年益寿大宜子孙” (Yan Nian Yi Shou Da Yi Zi Sun, meaning longevity for the well-being of descendants) excavated in Niya, Xinjiang in terms of shape and adornment, this pair of barrel-shaped jin-silk socks with a top opening was made by sewing several jin-silk pieces together. The instep was pieced together with various jin-silk patches, featuring motifs of confronted birds and animals, while the heel flap made of red juan is adorned with chain-stitch embroidery of intertwined vines in ecru and sage.