In the picturesque village of Wangmantian in east China’s Anhui Province, a centuries-old tradition comes alive each year during the Lantern Festival. The streets and alleys sparkle with the glow of exquisite fish-shaped lanterns, a symbol of prosperity and good fortune, meticulously crafted by local artisans.
Among these artisans, Wang Chengfeng stands out as a visionary. Recognizing the fragility and delicate nature of the traditional paper lanterns, Wang embarked on a mission to innovate without losing the essence of his village’s heritage. He became the first to sell Wangmantian’s fish-shaped lanterns beyond the village, introducing them to a wider audience eager for authentic cultural experiences.
Wang’s breakthrough came with the use of durable fabric materials, replacing the delicate paper while preserving the lanterns’ intricate designs and vibrant colors. This innovation not only extended the lifespan of the lanterns but also made them more accessible to those outside the mountainous regions of Anhui.
“I wanted to share the beauty of our tradition with the world,” Wang explains. “By adapting our methods, we’re ensuring that our heritage can be appreciated by future generations, no matter where they are.”
His efforts have begun to pay off. The reinvented lanterns are now capturing the imagination of people across China and beyond, symbolizing how tradition can adapt and thrive in a modern context. As Wangmantian’s fish-shaped lanterns illuminate new horizons, they stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of cultural innovation.
Reference(s):
Breathing new life into a centuries-old Chinese lantern tradition
cgtn.com
