Workers from the Nanjing Brocade Research Institute showcase a replica of an imperial gown from the Ming Dynasty, on Sunday, Dec. 23, 2007. (Xinhua Photo) Photo Gallery>>>

    BEIJING, Dec. 24 -- A brocade research institute in eastern China has finished making the replicas of two precious imperial gowns from four hundred years ago.

    The Nanjing Brocade Research Institute announced on Sunday that they have completed the reproductions of two gowns unearthed from the Ming Dynasty Tombs in 1958.

    The Ming Dynasty Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the outskirts of Beijing, served as an imperial mausoleum of the Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644).

    The delicate modern copies were hand-made using high-quality brocade and fabrics that are rare even today. Each has been embroidered with dragon patterns and a careful selection of colors to resemble its noble originals.

    The original gowns were in tatters when they were unearthed, placing a challenge for the reproduction work.

    For about three years, nearly 2,000 craftsmen were involved in the project, re-creating the garments largely based on descriptions in historical documents.

    Wang Jisheng, a senior manager from the research institute, refused to give details on the procedure, but calling the productions a legacy of the traditional art of garment making.

    (Source: CRIENGLISH.com)