Persimmon & Butterfly 185cm Double-Layer Canton Gauze Shawl
Long double-layer shawl in vintage Xiang Yun Sha flower gauze jacquard with mandarin button fastening and hand-sewn edges (100% mulberry silk).The Persimmon & Butterfly is a double-layer Canton gauze shawl of exceptional rarity. It is woven from 26 momme vintage Xiang Yun Sha — one of the heaviest weights this ancient fabric can reach. Unlike standard Canton gauze scarves, this piece is constructed in two layers and hand-sewn together.A traditional mandarin button finishes the front. The result is a shawl of extraordinary weight, warmth, and presence. Made in Hangzhou. Dimensions: 185 cm x 53 cm. Slight variations of ±3 cm may occur.
DESIGN / About the Design
The Persimmon & Butterfly draws from two of the most beloved auspicious motifs in Chinese culture. The persimmon — 柿子 — carries the meaning of 事事如意: may everything go as you wish. The butterfly, in turn, echoes 福叠 — accumulated fortune and joy without end. Together, they form a composition that is visually rich and deeply meaningful.The design is offered in two colourways. Face A presents the motifs against a deep navy ground — composed, elegant, and quietly dramatic. Face B, by contrast, carries the same motifs against a rich crimson red — warm, celebratory, and full of auspicious energy. Each colourway suits a different mood and occasion.
THE CRAFT / Vintage Xiang Yun Sha — Gambiered Canton Gauze (香云纱)
Xiang Yun Sha — known as Gambiered Canton Gauze — is a National Intangible Cultural Heritage of China. Its production follows the ancient method of 三蒸九煮十八晒: three steamings, nine boilings, and eighteen rounds of riverside sun-drying. Each stage is carried out entirely by hand.The fabric here is 老料 — vintage-grade Xiang Yun Sha at 26 momme. This is significantly heavier than standard Canton gauze, so the shawl carries exceptional body, drape, and warmth.The flower gauze jacquard technique weaves the motifs directly into the fabric structure. No printing is involved at any stage.The double-layer construction is hand-sewn throughout. This gives the piece a substance and finish that is rarely found in contemporary silk manufacture. Xiang Yun Sha also grows more beautiful and supple with each wear — a true investment in living craft.
GUIDE / Styling the Persimmon & Butterfly Shawl
At 185 cm, this shawl is designed to be draped over both shoulders and fastened at the front with the mandarin button. Alternatively, wear it open and loose over a long dress or coat, letting the fabric fall freely. The navy colourway suits formal occasions and evening events. The crimson colourway, on the other hand, is a natural choice for celebrations, festivals, and gifting occasions.Both colourways pair beautifully with:
- Black, charcoal, and deep navy dresses and coats
- Ivory, cream, and champagne evening wear
- Camel and warm brown tailored outerwear
- White and pale grey for a striking contrast
CARE
Vintage Xiang Yun Sha requires careful handling to preserve its natural plant dye and double-layer construction. Avoid direct rain, water, and chemical substances. Do not bleach or tumble dry. Store flat and away from direct sunlight when not in use. Entrust to a specialist dry cleaner experienced with heritage silk. See our Silk Care Guide for full instructions.
DELIVERY & RETURNS
See our Delivery Policy and Refund Policy.
GIFTING
Each shawl arrives in luxury gift packaging with a coordinating bag, ready to treasure. This is also a particularly meaningful gift for mothers, grandmothers, and those who appreciate the finest things. Gift recipients may also exchange within the standard return period.
