Apron Panel 19th-20th century

This apron panel was made by Taigong Miao, using dyed threads, woven to create this striking textile. The materials aren't particularly precious, yet the result is jewel-like. Look closely, and you'll see the panel is a riot of geometric forms, bold colors, and stylized motifs. The patterns aren't printed or painted: they are structurally integral to the cloth. The artist would have worked through every intersection of the weft and warp, to create this composition. Think of the hours, weeks, perhaps months, that went into planning and producing this piece. The labor is considerable, and therein lies the panel's importance. It shows the patient accumulation of skillful labor, transformed into an object of great beauty. The artist challenges any conventional distinction between art and craft.