Editor's note: Xiang embroidery is one of the four most brilliant embroidery styles in China (the other three are the Suzhou, Sichuan and Guangdong embroidery styles). Xiang is another name for Hunan Province. Originating from the areas around Changsha and gradually developing into neighboring Hubei Province, Xiang embroidery has enjoyed a long history and is well received by people both in China and abroad. Traditionally, Xiang embroidery uses as many as 72 types of stitches and colorful silk and crewel threads. Its designs involve flowers, plants, living creatures and human figures, all of which highlight texture to give the artwork a lifelike effect. The brilliant art was included into the first group of state-level intangible cultural heritage lists in 2006. In the following pictures, embroidery workers display their excellent techniques in Shaping Town of Changsha, hometown of Xiang embroidery.

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