Tuesday, August 14, 2007

Lotus Purse


Now you see a sleeve...


But what are these cords for?

The answer is: for knotted tassels.


A traditional Chinese dress had no pockets, hence a girl had to attach a purse to her belt like this:


It was called a lotus purse and was usually embroidered and tasseled by the wearer herself, showcasing her needlework skills and, at the same time, reflecting her personality. Therefore, a painstakingly embroidered lotus purse was usually presented to a family member, or a betrothed one, as a keepsake gift. It was a symbol of love.

13 comments:

Just call me Ruby said...

What a beautiful project with such significance. I love your sketch aswell. As Telly Savalas once said 'if a picture paints a 1000 words'

Connie said...

I'll have to echo Ruby here... Love your sketch! And the purse is so cute. Great job. :)

Jackie said...

Iris, It is beautiful!
You will be selling this pattern, right? The sketch is also amazing.

Gudrun Johnston said...

What an adorable little bag...perfect gift giving item!

Lucy said...

Iris your Lotus purse is stunning! Love the sketch too - lovely lovely work

Susan Luni said...

Such imagination! First I had no idea what it was, then I thought it really didn't look like a purse, but once you put the tassels on it, it does look like a purse. So cute!

Jackie said...

U r a talented lady.

Anonymous said...

It's beautiful! I love how you've fused the traditional elements together... great work!!

Anonymous said...

I just love this little purse--especially the dangling bows. What a sweet project-a great gift.

Probably Jane said...

What a beautiful piece - thank you for sharing your inspiration.

Connie said...

You are so inspiring! I love your lotus purse.

Regg said...

lovely~

bobbi said...

outstanding!