A silk fabric with rich colours and a unique shimmering quality, thought to originate in China or Persia, and known in Europe as the ultimate luxury fabric from the 10thC onwards, being particularly popular in the 16thC. The background weft is supplemented with additional wefts (often in gold and silver) laid on top, forming a raised pattern.
A luxury textiles for special work, upholstery, curtains, bedspreads and cushions, and an essential for antique furniture renovation.