The Origin of Beijing Silk Flowers
Beijing silk flowers, also known as Jinghua or “head ornaments,” trace their roots back over a thousand years to the Tang dynasty. According to legend, Yang Guifei, the beloved consort of Emperor Xuanzong, had a small scar near her temple. To conceal it, her maids adorned her hair with fresh flowers daily. However, when winter came and fresh flowers were scarce, a resourceful maid crafted artificial flowers from silk and offered them to the consort. These exquisite creations gained popularity and eventually spread beyond the palace, evolving into a unique form of handmade artistry known as silk flowers.
The beauty and fame of Beijing silk flowers.
Beijing silk flowers, renowned for their intricate craftsmanship, vibrant colors, and lifelike appearance, have garnered recognition both in China and abroad. The Qing dynasty showcased these handmade flowers at the Panama-Pacific International Exposition, where they garnered prestigious accolades. Over time, the craft expanded to include over 2,000 varieties, such as theatrical flowers, floral garlands, bouquets, and bonsai arrangements.
The Heart of Jinghua: Beijing’s Flower Market
Beijing silk flower artistry originated in the area outside Chongwenmen, historically known as the Flower Market (Huashi). During the prosperous Kangxi and Qianlong eras of the Qing dynasty, this area became a hub for silk flower production and trade. Families in the region specialized in crafting, selling, and distributing silk flowers, creating a flourishing local economy.
The process of creating Beijing silk flowers involves multiple meticulous steps, including starching, shaping, dyeing, petal molding, assembling, and final packaging. Artisans use fine materials like silk, satin, and crepe, resulting in flowers with unparalleled realism and artistic value.
Famous silk flower families, such as the “Hua’er Jin” family, left an indelible mark on this craft. Four generations of the Jin family celebrated the Jinghua master artisans for their unparalleled skill. The Relics of the Old Capital described their work as so exquisite that no one could rival their artistry.
A Craft in Crisis
Despite its historical and cultural significance, Beijing silk flower making is now on the brink of extinction. The decline of traditional markets and the rise of mass-produced artificial flowers have severely impacted the industry. Once-thriving workshops have closed, and only a handful of artisans remain with the knowledge to carry on this ancient craft. The recent closure of Beijing Silk Flower Factory highlights the urgency of preserving this endangered art form before it disappears entirely.
Phoenix Lee https://chinese-tradition.com/beijing-silk-flowers-preserving-a-thousand-year-tradition-on-the-brink-of-extinction.html