Qiang house

The Qiang people built their homes from stone, earth and timber, judging all measurements by eye, rather than designing scientifically; yet all buildings have stood firm, straight and long. The Qiang houses usually have five stories. Livestock is kept on the first floor, and the living room, bedrooms and kitchen are on the second and the third. The fourth is used for storage and the fifth is a place of worship where white stones are arranged upon which sacrifices are offered.

The living room on the second floor has a wooden floor, and several wooden pillars supporting the roof . The focal point of the living room is the fireplace, made from stone slabs, where a fire burns the whole year round. The fireplace is also where family and friends gather to celebrate weddings, births and festivals.

Another fascinating feature of Taoping village is its complex and highly effective water supply network. Subterranean channels run beneath each street, enabling water to be fetched simply by lifting a stone slab. The sound of running water pervades, yet not a drop is in sight.

 Qiang dress and ornamentation

Qiang people have a strong aesthetic sense, as can be seen from their daily dress and ornamentation. They sew their own garments and footwear and embroider them with various motifs. Women's wearing, from hats to shoes, is elaborately decorated with floral patterns, sometimes giving the impression that the scent of flowers emanates from the clothes.

Page:

1

2

3

All rights reserved. Reproduction of text for non-commercial purposes is permitted provided that both the source and author are acknowledged and a notifying email is sent to us.