Silk Velvet Flower Technology: A Timeless Art Form

Silk Velvet flowers, also known as “Rong Hua,” are a unique and intricate art form that has been cherished in China for centuries. These flowers are crafted from natural silk and copper wire, traditionally used for festive and ceremonial decorations, embodying a rich cultural heritage.

Historical Significance

The art of Silk Velvet flowers dates back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907), where they were initially presented as tributes to the imperial palaces, particularly during the reign of Wu Zetian, China’s only empress. They became fashionable as hair embellishments among the aristocracy and court ladies. The practice of wearing velvet flowers was not limited to the elite; it eventually spread to the general public, with the commercial area in Jangsu province becoming known as the “flower market,” a hub for velvet flower boutiques.

Craftsmanship and Production Process

The creation of Silk Velvet flowers is a meticulous process that involves nine distinct steps: silk refining, dyeing, air drying, hooking, ironing, pinching, assembling flowers, sticking flowers, and packaging. Each step requires precision and care, from boiling silk threads to soften them, dyeing them in a variety of colors, shaping and rolling them onto wire frames, to finally trimming and twisting them into the desired floral forms.

Cultural Value and Modern Relevance

Silk Velvet flowers hold a special place in Chinese culture. They are not only admired for their beauty but also for their symbolic meaning. The name “Rong Hua” is a homophone for words meaning “prosperity” and “auspiciousness” in Mandarin, making them popular for blessings and as talismans against evil. Today, these flowers have made a comeback, becoming a new urban trend among young women who share pictures of them on social media. They also feature in period dramas, on red carpet outfits, and in luxury brand collections, demonstrating their timeless appeal and modern relevance.

Challenges and Preservation

Despite the mechanized production and modernization pressures that have led to a decline in traditional velvet flower making due to high costs, low output, and complex processes, efforts are being made to preserve this art form. Craftsmen like Zhao Shuxian, who learned the craft in the 1970s, continue to create these flowers by hand, maintaining the tradition and passing it on to new generations. The inclusion of velvet flower in the Intangible Cultural Heritage List of Jiangsu Province in 2006 is a testament to the recognition and efforts to safeguard this cultural treasure.

Silk Velvet Flower Technology is more than just a craft; it is a living legacy that carries the spirit of Chinese craftsmanship and the sincere blessings of its people. As the art form evolves with the times, it continues to enchant and inspire, ensuring that the beauty and significance of Silk Velvet flowers are never forgotten.