Bearing cloths were used to wrap around swaddled babies (babies wrapped round with strips of cloth) or to carry them on for christenings (baptisms) and other ceremonial occasions. The cloths were made of rich materials and this example is made of silk brocaded with silver and silver-gilt thread. The main purpose of bearing cloths was to display a family's wealth and status, and to celebrate a new birth. Since they were used only on special occasions and with great care, they were often passed down through families over generations.