The Song dynasty brocade is known to be the most complicated, elegant and beautiful form of brocade silk. Developed during China’s ancient Song dynasty some 1,000 years ago, Song brocade fabrics are characterized by their bright colors, exquisite patterns and solid yet soft texture. It is used in dress-making, painting and calligraphy mountings, as well as decorations. Because of the complicated and expensive process in creating these masterpieces, however, the practice is almost lost. During the 2014 APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Beijing, Song brocades were used to dress the leaders and their spouses in a grand family photo.