Museum Updates
2,000-year-old quilt with a clever U-shaped notch
Updated: Oct 19, 2026
China Bound
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As the weather turns colder, nothing feels better than snuggling under a warm quilt. But have you ever seen one with a U-shaped notch like this?
This embroidered light yellow silk quilt with dragon and phoenix motifs, dating back to the Warring States Period (475-221 BC), is a remarkable example of ancient Chinese craftsmanship. Its cover is pieced together from 23 embroidered silk panels featuring different patterns. But the real genius lies in its U-shaped notch: it helps distinguish the head from the foot, while wrapping snugly around the shoulders to keep the sleeper warm. A thoughtful touch that combines hygiene, comfort and practicality! Collection: Jingzhou Museum in Hubei province.
Would you use this ingenious quilt design today?
