An appliqué is a special form of ornamental needlework in which pieces of fabric in different shapes and patterns are sewn or stuck onto a larger piece to form a picture or pattern. Mongol appliqué, is characterised by unique traditional styled designs and outstanding needlework, which evolved from the early felt embroidery art of our predecessors, the Xiongnu (Hunnu period 3rd century B.C).

The ‘Khan Khentiin Gar Urchuud’ (Craftsmen of Khan Khentii) company from the  Umnudelger Soum, Khentii Aimag (province) initiated this project with the aim or passing on the traditional handicraft of felt embroidery appliqué to future generations.

The 108 meter-long felt appliqué, currently being displayed on Ulaanbaatar’s central Sukhbaatar Square, depicts the Secret History of Mongols, one of the oldest surviving Mongolian-language historic and literary works. The ‘Secret History’ is of huge importance to Mongolians, as it provides a detailed chronicle of the life and achievements of Chinggis Khaan.

The embroidery appliqué transforms the ‘Secret History’ into art,  depicting the life of Chinggis Khaan, and the exploits and traditions of Mongolians in the 13th century. It contains scenes from nomadic life  such as animal herding, shamanic rituals; along with national ornaments. It also includes images from an earlier time in our land, such as petroglyphs and deer stones.

The dream of the enthusiasts in Umnudelger Soum of passing on the traditional appliqué craft has been fully realised involving thousands of Mongolians.  Over 5000 craftsmen from all of Mongolia’s 21 Aimags  were involved in creating the felt appliqué beginning on 28th December 2015 and finishing on 12th March 2017. During the creation process 4000 more people were taught the skills of the felt appliqué. Craftspeople not only from Mongolia but also from other Mongol nations including Inner Mongolia, Tuva, Buryatia, Kalmykia and Kyrgyzstan were engaged in the giant creation. In total, no less than 108 square metres of felt, 110 metres of white fabric, over 100 liters of paint in 32 colours and 20,000 km of camel wool threads were used in the production of the appliqué.