the art of making, with a needle and thread, ornamental designs on cloth or other materials. Embroidery is one of the oldest of decorative arts. The ancient Egyptians and Assyrians practiced it to a considerable extent, and from them the Jews, Greeks and Romans learned it. The oldest known embroidery was done in cotton, linen and wool; later, silk came into greater favor. The Chinese and Japanese embroideries are very elaborate, most of the work being done upon silk, with the figures in brilliant colors of silk alone, or combined with gold and silver. Besides silk and gold threads, beads, spangles, pearls and gems are used in the embroidery of the Persians, Turks and Hindus. In Europe, during the Middle Ages, the art was brought to the highest degree of perfection, and it was a favorite occupation among women of all ranks. In England it was of the highest importance, both as a recreation and as an industry. On clothing, as well as on curtains and wall hangings, rich embroidery was very fashionable. During the last half of the nineteenth century, machines were invented which make almost perfect imitations of hand embroidery. The best embroideries are made in Switzerland. The principal stitches used in embroidery are chain stitch, cross, cushion, buttonhole, canvas, couching, rope, crewel and feather stitch. In embroidering elaborate designs the fabric is fitted and stretched over a frame.