China is home to about one-third of the world's 1,300
species of bamboo. For centuries, its tough, pliable stalks have been deftly
woven into a wide variety of objects combining utility with remarkable artistic
expression.
Ancient Fashion
Bamboo, pine and plum -- known as "three good friends in the cold years"
-- have always been popular among the Chinese people. Whether strong, light,
smooth or straight, bamboo is one of the most favorable materials used by
handicraftsmen in China.
Bamboo basketry
, an art of weaving or coiling and sewing flexible sawalis to form vessels or
other commodities, has a long history in China. In primitive society, ancient
people had mastered the skills of basketry using grass, bamboo, straw, etc,
which is proven by the unearthed relics from the Liangchu Culture Period. The
bamboo basketry has been employed by primitive people to make crude huts,
articles of dress and adornment, granaries, traps, boats, cooking utensils,
water vessels, and other utensils.
These hand-woven craftworks, which were light, convenient and cheap, later
became favorites in people's lives, including daily articles, articles for
cultural use and entertainment, cooking utensils, mats, shoes and caps,
craftworks for ornaments, and so on. Today, many bamboo basketry products are
exported to various countries and regions.