Size:168*118cmOrigin:Kunming of Yunnan Fabric:cotton
Wax printing is an ancient handicraft in China, which dated back to Qin and Han Dynasties (221 BC¨C 220 AD). The hand-made wax printing technique had been lost through civilization except those preserved by the Miao ethnic group located in the remote mountainous area of Southwest China (primaryly Guizhou, Sichuan, and Yunan). To produce this beautiful artwork, artist needs to place the wax on a piece of cotton cloth by using a specifically made wax knife for the desired pattern, and then to dye the cloth for the colour, followed by melting the wax. Wax printing has been recognized as the foundation of ancient Chinese civilization in dyeing and weaving technology. United Nation Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has recently reported to the United Nation (UN) the Miao costume decorations as one of the world cultural relics, including the traditional Miao wax printing. The Miao batik designs are plain, naive, rough and powerful. Its shapes, not confining itself to exact details of natural images, are boldly diversified and exaggeratedly drawn. The diversity and exaggeration is out of pure imagination, and infinitely breathtakingly charming. The diversified designs are in geometric shape and that of natural images, which generally stem from human life or elegant legends and characterized with rich folk color. Batik is both a kind of ancient art and young and modern art. Its summarized succinct modeling, the pure bright color and the exaggeratedly-distorted decorative design meet the need of modern life, therefore, suit the modern aesthetic requirements.
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Rich Artistic Connotation & Historical Background:
This artwork is a large-scale embroidered tablecloth with butterflies and flowers, which is of great cultural significance.
Firstly, the tablecloth uses traditional Chinese embroidery techniques, showcasing exquisite patterns through careful needlework and color application.
This technique has a long history in China and represents the essence of ancient Chinese culture and craftsmanship.
Secondly, butterflies and flowers are common symbols in Chinese culture, representing beauty, freedom, and happiness.
In this tablecloth, they are skillfully combined to form a beautiful image.
This not only demonstrates the artist's creativity and skill but also conveys admiration and yearning for natural beauty.
Lastly, this tablecloth also has practical value as it can be used to decorate homes and add warmth and romance to the environment.
Whether used as a decorative piece on the dining table or as a gift for loved ones, it can showcase its unique artistic charm and cultural heritage.
In conclusion, this large-scale embroidered tablecloth with butterflies and flowers is a work of art that carries rich cultural significance.
It not only displays the exquisite skills of traditional Chinese embroidery but also conveys the pursuit of a better life.
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