Excavations at the Jingzhou archaeological site in central China have revealed a sophisticated Warring States Period workshop dedicated to the intricate decoration of royal silk. Archaeologists discovered dozens of carved wooden stencils and copper alloy stamps used for applying complex geometric and zoomorphic patterns to high-status garments.
The find is complemented by a series of mineral-pigment trays containing residues of cinnabar, malachite, and azurite. Experts note that the workshop's layout suggests a highly organized production line, where silk was moved through successive stages of washing, stenciling, and setting. This discovery significantly advances our understanding of Chu State luxury textile technology and the early history of pattern printing in Asia.