Hidden deep within the valleys of southwest China’s Yunnan Province, the Dulong ethnic group carries on a vibrant tradition that beautifully intertwines nature and culture. Inspired by the iridescent plumage of the Lady Amherst’s pheasant, the Dulong people weave rugs that mirror the bird’s radiant colors, bringing the hues of the rainbow into their homes.
Dulongjiang, often referred to as the “last uncharted land in Yunnan,” is nestled between the Hengduan Mountains and the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau. For years, this remote area remained isolated, its secrets guarded by towering peaks and dense forests. It wasn’t until 2014, when a highway was fully opened, that the valley began to share its rich cultural heritage with the outside world.
The Dulong rug is more than just a household item; it is a vivid expression of the people’s connection to their environment. By day, it serves as clothing, draped over shoulders to display its vibrant patterns. By night, it becomes bedding, providing warmth against the mountain chill. Crafted by ingeniously combining plant pigments and fibers, each rug tells a story of ancestral knowledge and artistic skill.
In December 2022, the Dulong rug-making technique was officially recognized, being included on the fifth representative list of provincial intangible cultural heritage items of Yunnan. This acknowledgment not only honors the craftsmanship of the Dulong people but also ensures the preservation of their unique cultural identity for future generations.
The Lady Amherst’s pheasant, with its shimmering feathers, continues to inspire the Dulong artisans. Its presence in the valley symbolizes the harmonious relationship between the community and the natural world. Through their rugs, the Dulong people celebrate this connection, weaving together threads of tradition, artistry, and the breathtaking beauty of their homeland.
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Where Nature Meets Culture: From vibrant rainbow to iridescent rug
cgtn.com
