Hunan Embroidery. Design: Huang Cui-Feng; Embroidery: Wang Yu-Hui
98 × 59 × 26 cm
The Ballad of Mulan, originating from the Northern and Southern Dynasties, tells the story of a young woman who takes her father’s place in the army during a military conscription and becomes a legendary female warrior. This piece uses Double-sided Disparate Embroidery to depict Mulan’s dual identity: her heroic presence on the battlefield and her peaceful return to rural life. As a general, she rides boldly with banners flying behind her, exuding strength and command. The pastoral side reflects the scene in the poem where Mulan removes her armor and returns to her quiet, domestic life.