Threads of time: Tai'an's living heritage in hands of master artisans

In Tai'an, a fertile land nurturing diverse and distinctive traditional crafts, artisans carry on the legacy of generations past. These invaluable skills embody the wisdom and dedication of craftsmen, serving as vivid imprints of historical culture at the foot of Taishan Mountain.

Today, Taian's intangible cultural heritage craftsmen tirelessly continue their work, cherishing ancestral traditions and safeguarding the roots of their craft. Simultaneously, they actively explore ways to breathe new life into old techniques. Integrating tales and local scenery into their creations, they experiment with modern designs that appeal to contemporary aesthetics. It is this blend of preservation and innovation that keeps the old crafts of Tai’an vibrant and radiating a timeless charm in the present era.

Take, for example, the traditional art of Taishan Shi's Dough Sculpture, where the seventh-generation practitioner, Shi Hongling, infuses new vitality into the craft. Originating in the mid-Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) in Taian, this art form, recognized as a Shandong provincial intangible cultural heritage item, captivates with its lively expressions and profound themes.

Dough sculpture, commonly known as figure molding, is an ancient craft with written records dating back to the Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 24). Originally used for rituals and celebrations, it later became a treasured folk art embraced by ordinary households, shining as a brilliant pearl of traditional Chinese craftsmanship.

The delicate art of Dawenkou lacework, passed down through generations, is meticulously upheld by Tang Binjie. Growing out of traditional Lu embroidery, this craft involves weaving various intricate patterns into decorative parasols. Tang's commitment to selecting premium materials and weaving intricate designs highlights the essence of this ancient art form. (Edited by Xie Zhenzhen)

As a national intangible cultural heritage of China, Taishan shadow puppetry boasts a history of over 600 years. [Photo/WeChat account: SDTXTA]