Preserving ancient techniques

In 2006, Shu brocade weaving techniques were included on the list of China's Intangible Cultural Heritage by the State Council. In the Chengdu Shu Brocade and Embroidery Museum, visitors can see brocade featuring the giant panda, flowers and birds, famous works of calligraphy and paintings, as well as China's folk customs.

One of the most eye-catching sights is dahualou, which literally translates as big jacquard platform. It is a wood loom built in the late 18th century. Made entirely of wood, dahualou does not have a single nail to connect different parts. It can be detached and reassembled easily.

There are only three original dahualou looms still in existence in the country. They are in the National Museum of China, Sichuan Provincial Museum and Chengdu Shu Brocade and Embroidery Museum.

(China Daily 09/28/2016 page29)