As a traditional Chinese handicraft, the characteristics of lanterns can be summarized as follows:
Material and structure
The main body of the lantern is mostly made of bamboo, wood, metal and other materials to weave the skeleton, covered with paper, yarn, silk and other materials to form a transparent or translucent cover. For example, the gauze lantern uses linen or ramie fabric as the lamp surface, and the revolving lantern drives the wheel shaft to rotate through the heat generated by candlelight.
The structure often combines weaving, stitching and paper cutting techniques. For example, the Gaocheng tribute lantern uses hand-woven and embroidery techniques to form exquisite patterns and shapes.
Function and symbolic meaning
Lighting and decoration: Lanterns were originally used as lighting tools, and later gradually evolved into decorations for festivals and celebrations. For example, the red lanterns hung during the Lantern Festival symbolize reunion and joy.
Cultural symbol: Different types of lanterns are used for different occasions: bridal lanterns are used at weddings to represent joy; bamboo lanterns are used at funerals; and surname lanterns are used because "lantern" and "ding" are homophonic, symbolizing a prosperous population.
Blessing meaning: Lanterns are often given good wishes such as health, peace, and prosperity. For example, the lighting ceremony symbolizes a bright future for students.
Artistic and craftsmanship
Combining various traditional crafts such as painting, paper cutting, and embroidery, a rich pattern and shape are formed. For example, the dance and music picture in the Dunhuang murals depicts the scene of the lantern tower and the goddess lighting lanterns in the Tang Dynasty.
Various types: including palace lanterns, gauze lanterns, revolving lanterns, etc., each type has a unique artistic expression method and symbolic meaning.
History and cultural heritage
The origin can be traced back to the Western Han Dynasty. After the evolution of the Tang, Song, and Ming dynasties, it has developed from a lighting tool to a comprehensive handicraft.
It is still widely used in festivals such as the Spring Festival and the Lantern Festival in modern times, and has become an important carrier of Chinese culture.