Bamboo development history
Bamboo has a long and rich history in China, deeply rooted in the daily lives of its people. Archaeological findings suggest that even during the Neolithic Age, bamboo was already being used to make baskets for storing food. In the Liangzhu culture era, ancestors from Zhejiang used large bamboo mats on rooftops of dry-column buildings to protect themselves from rain. These early uses of bamboo reveal how integral it was to ancient Chinese life.
In 1958, over 200 bamboo woven items were discovered at the Qianshan Neolithic site in Wuxing County, Zhejiang Province. Most of these were smooth and carefully crafted. They included tools for fishing, mats for sitting and lying, as well as various types of baskets, containers, and even small crickets. The craftsmanship was highly advanced, with intricate patterns such as herringbone, diamond lattices, and cross-grained designs. Some pieces even featured plum eyes and scorpion motifs, showcasing the complexity of early bamboo weaving techniques. This suggests that bamboo weaving had already become a significant part of daily life and production during that time.
During the Shang Dynasty more than 3,000 years ago, bamboo was used to create rafts and simple utensils. Items like bamboo chopsticks, baskets, mats, and chairs became common household goods. By the Warring States Period, the art of bamboo weaving began to take shape, with patterns such as squares, rice grains, lines, and ripples appearing. Over time, the techniques became more refined and detailed.
One famous reference comes from the Eastern Jin Dynasty, when poet Xu Zhi wrote about a finely woven bamboo fan. He described it as delicate and transparent, like the wings of a cicada. This poem highlights the sophistication of bamboo craftsmanship in Zhejiang and Guizhou regions, which were known for their exquisite work even back then.
By the Song and Yuan Dynasties, bamboo crafts had reached a higher level. Lanterns made from bamboo were especially popular during the Lantern Festival. In areas like Shaoxing, Jinhua, and Dongyang, skilled artisans were hired to create beautiful lanterns that were displayed during festivals. After harvest seasons, people also built dragon-shaped decorations using bamboo, adding to the cultural significance of this material.
In the Ming and Qing Dynasties, bamboo weaving flourished further. More artists joined the craft, traveling to villages to make everyday items such as baskets, incense holders, and grain boxes. These products were not only practical but also beautifully crafted. In temples, fans and palm-like objects were made from bamboo, often decorated with elegant patterns and painted designs.
During the early years of the Guangxu reign in the Qing Dynasty, a bamboo workshop was established in Jixian County by two master artisans. Their products, including tobacco baskets and shoe baskets, were highly sought after for their quality and affordability. As demand grew, workshops expanded, producing a wide range of bamboo items in various sizes and shapes. Some of the most delicate baskets could be woven with over 120 strands per inch, featuring intricate patterns and traditional motifs.
At the beginning of the 19th century, Jixian County was at the peak of its bamboo weaving industry. Products such as test baskets, incense baskets, and food baskets were widely sold in cities like Nanjing, Shanghai, and Hangzhou. Some items were even exported abroad, gaining international recognition and winning awards at fairs.
During the Republic of China era, bamboo weaving continued to evolve. Techniques and patterns became more diverse, and new products like lanterns and screens emerged. In 1925, a master artisan from Xinchang County introduced fine bamboo wares to Jixian, creating custom items that were well-received by foreign customers. In 1934, local bamboo products were highlighted in publications, emphasizing their beauty and variety.
The popularity of bamboo crafts led to exhibitions where they gained attention and praise. In 1937, a local shop won an award at a national handicraft exhibition. Photos of square and round bamboo baskets were published in newspapers, showing the high regard for this traditional craft.
However, the outbreak of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression severely impacted the industry. Production declined, exports stopped, and many artisans turned to other trades. Despite the hardships, the legacy of bamboo weaving remained strong, preserving its cultural value for future generations.
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