Embroidery is considered as one of the most important art forms in China. Embroidery in China has a history of more than 5,500 years. The special techniques and art style of Chinese embroidery make it outstanding and unique in the world. The items embroidered are quite diverse and include robes, theatrical costumes, purses, shoes, spectacle cases, banners, alter cloths and many other pieces.

Embroidery in China is not only a kind of skill and technique but also a phenomena  of culture. In ancient China, embroidery skill used to be one of the essential skills every woman must have. In China, a woman who can create quality embroidery pieces will be well respected and admired. Women in rich families often took embroidery as a hobby while women from poor families did embroidery for a living. According to Confucianism, diligent needlework is an important principle in the Three Obediences and Four Virtues of Women, a Confucian guide for ancient Chinese women.

The most famous Four Embroideries in China are the Su Embroidery from Suzhou in Jiangsu Province, the Xiang Embroidery in Hunan Province, the Yue Embroidery in Guangdong Province and the Shu Embroidery in Sichuan Province.