Coir raincoat
A signature image in Chinese poetry when it depicts a misty rainy day, coir raincoats are one of the brilliant Chinese inventions from ancient times. Made from web-like fibers peeled from palm bark, the coat is weaved layer upon layer like a piece of armor. People still wear the coats today in some regions in China.
Wu Xungui, a 50-year-old resident of Dongqiao, is now the only person left in his hometown who practices this ancient craft.
The raincoat on display at the cultural fair took Wu three days to make, and is reminiscent of those bygone days.
Lacquer thread sculpture
Originating in Quanzhou city, Fujian's unique, delicate lacquer thread sculpture art evolved from ancient techniques used to decorate Buddha statues dating back to the Tang Dynasty (AD 618-907). Lacquer threat sculpture eventually developed into its own form around the turn of the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1644, 1644-1912).
Producing a lacquer thread work is an intricate process requiring delicacy at every step, from making the paste wax, rubbing the lacquer thread into varied forms, to twisting the lacquer threads into elaborate patterns and finally covering it with gold foil.
This demanding craft requires great patience, but the end result is dazzling.
