Characters in the TV drama Story of Yanxi Palacewear velvet flowers. [Photo/Mtime]
Velvet flower-making technique
The velvet flower-making technique, which originated in the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC), became a royal tribute during the Tang Dynasty (618-907), and entered common people's lives during the late Ming (1368-1644) and early Qing dynasties. Made of silk and copper wires, velvet flowers were popular in ancient times for their long-lasting "blossoms". The craft's Chinese name, ronghua, a homophone for the word "glory", is considered auspicious.
The velvet flower-making technique was listed as intangible cultural heritage of Jiangsu province in 2006.
The ancient Chinese painting Ladies with Head-pinned Flowersshows ladies wearing silk flowers as head ornaments. [Photo/Artron.net]
Silk flower-making technique
Silk flowers, flower-shaped head ornaments made of silk, are a traditional craft in Beijing. The craft originated in the Tang Dynasty and became popular due to its resemblance to real flowers. It was listed as national intangible cultural heritage in 2008.
Hanfurepresents not only an aesthetic for living, but also a continuation of traditional Chinese culture. Nowadays, more and more fashion designs look to hanfufor inspiration, producing chic examples of hanfufor a new era.
