Imperial Maids of the State of Shu

The original painting was based on the court life of Meng Chang (919-965 AD), the sovereign of the State of the Later Shu in the Five Dynasties and Ten States period (907-960 AD). There are four palace performers in this image, busy dressing up for the upcoming performance for the sovereign. Fitted out in full costumes, they have dunned flower-shaped garlands and gold or silver hairpins. One of them is looking at the mirror to check her attire; one of the others is holding the rouge plate and allowing another to help her with the makeup and the rest one seems to be giving instructions to the three by waving her hands. These characters are in beautifully hued clothing, ruffles and creases on which are expressed by flowing “iron wire like” lines with the same width. Regarding costume colors, there are contrasts between pale and strong, cool and warm colors. As for the texture of faces and hands, satin stitches were used first to set a foundation and thin threads were later laid in multiple layers to create an effect of gloss and smoothness. And the technique of fine-thread plain embroidery known for flowing curvy lines was applied all over these characters. Thanks to all the above-mentioned skills and techniques, these ladies with wisp-o’-the-willow eyebrows, tipped chins and fine complexions look delicate and graceful. By looking at them, the views can’t help but sympathizing with these beautiful girls as they seemed to exist only for the pleasure of the nobilities. This is where the theme of this artwork lies.