What You Might Need to Know to Go from a Hanfu Novice to a Hanfu Aficionado.
Ⅰ. Overview The Scroll Grass Pattern, a motif in Hanfu textile design, embodies China’s cultural heritage through its elegant botanical forms. Internationally recognized as the “karakusa pattern” in Japan and “arabesque” or “tendril ornament” in Western contexts. Artistically synthesizing floral elements (peonies, pomegranates, sacred lotuses), mythical creatures, and celestial beings, Read more…
I. Introduction The phoenix, a divine bird used by ancient priests for sacrificial ceremonies to communicate with the gods, is the legendary king of all birds. It wears a magnificent crest on its head and its feathers are adorned with numerous “eyes.” It is regarded as an auspicious bird in Read more…
At the heart of the ceiling in Cave 320 of the Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang, a composite floral pattern—crafted from an eight-petaled lotus—has bloomed undiminished for over a millennium. This intricate motif, born as a masterpiece of Buddhist art, evolved through centuries into one of the most philosophically profound decorative Read more…
The legend and culture of the dragon are integral parts of China’s historical heritage, representing one of the most iconic cultural symbols of the Chinese nation. In the traditional culture of the Han and other ethnic groups, the dragon is often seen as a symbol of auspiciousness and is one Read more…
Hanfu is the traditional clothing of ancient China, and it was the dominant style of dress for many centuries. Although the term “Hanfu” is derived from the Han Dynasty, the style itself originated long before, with roots tracing back to Emperor Huangdi’s time. Hanfu remained the mainstream fashion until the Read more…
Ancient shoes played multiple roles in social and cultural life. They were not only essential for daily use but also reflected social status, cultural customs, and aesthetic values. When people think of shoes, they often consider their protective function for the feet. However, much like other animals, the skin on Read more…
The “Cloud Shoulders” is a decorative textile worn over the shoulders in ancient China. Initially, it was designed to protect the neckline and shoulders from dirt, but over time, it evolved into a decorative accessory, often made from colorful brocades. Its appearance, like clouds after the rain reflecting the sun Read more…
Starting from the recorded wedding ceremonies of the Zhou Dynasty, the basic structure of Chinese weddings dress has been preserved for over 3,000 years. Though wedding traditions have evolved significantly over time—especially with the social changes of the modern era—the core desire for happiness remains unchanged, regardless of the ceremony’s Read more…
Chinese traditional philosophical thoughts played a crucial role in ancient society, and Hanfu can be said to be deeply influenced by these traditional philosophies and ethical values. Clothing was governed by various traditional elements, and Chinese people based their dress system on the “Zhou Li” (Rites of Zhou), which became Read more…
Cultures around the world have various ways of interpreting their own civilizations, and painting is one of the key methods of expression. In China, traditional painting is referred to as guohua (Chinese traditional painting), a term that originated during the Han Dynasty. It primarily refers to scroll paintings created on silk, Read more…