In the heart of Beijing, a centuries-old tradition continues to cast its warm glow across generations. The art of crafting intricate lanterns – known locally as dengcai or huadeng – remains a vibrant symbol of China's cultural identity, blending history with modern creativity.
These luminous creations have long been central to celebrations from the Spring Festival to the Mid-Autumn Festival, their radiant designs embodying prosperity and communal joy. The legacy lives on in Beijing's Dengshikou district, once the epicenter of lantern markets during the Ming and Qing dynasties, where streets shimmered with kaleidoscopic displays.
Recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage item, Beijing lantern-making synthesizes multiple traditional crafts. Artisans employ delicate painting techniques, paper mounting, embroidery, and carving to transform bamboo frames and silk into glowing masterpieces. Each piece tells a story through motifs ranging from mythical creatures to poetic landscapes.
Master craftsman Liu Shaobai represents this living tradition. Trained under imperial palace lantern specialist Li Banghua, Liu has become a bridge between past and present. 'Every lantern carries our ancestors' wisdom,' he reflects. Through workshops and community projects, Liu's team adapts traditional methods for contemporary audiences while preserving historical authenticity.
As night falls over Beijing, these glowing artworks continue to unite communities – a testament to cultural preservation meeting modern innovation under the moonlit sky.
