Chang’e
Moon Goddess in Chinese Mythology
Collection: The Musician Goddesses Collection
Technique and Medium: This work was embroidered using silk shading, stem stitch, backstitch, and French knot. To evoke the illusion of flowing fabric—frequently seen in Chinese mythology—ribbon embroidery was employed, along with bead embellishment. Cotton mouliné threads, satin ribbons, and organza ribbons were used in the work.
Dimensions: 31 × 23 cm (height × width)
Inspiration: Inspired by traditional Chinese paintings and artistic depictions of Chang’e.
In Chinese mythology, Chang’e is known as the goddess of the moon. Closely associated with the Mid-Autumn Festival, this figure has inspired many legends in which she chooses the moon as her eternal dwelling. In visual arts, Chang’e is often depicted with the moon, and in some illustrations, she is shown holding a dizi - a traditional Chinese flute. Also referred to as di or hengdi, this flute is typically made from purple (northern) or white (Suzhou/Hangzhou) bamboo
Di-zi
Di-zi is the general name for side-blown bamboo flutes unique to China. It is used across a wide range of genres, from classical Chinese music to opera and folk music. Often adorned with Chinese knots, which carry symbolic meanings in semiotic terms, dizis reflect a traditional aesthetic. The instruments in our collection were acquired in Beijing through purchase in 2006 and 2009.