Historical Context and Technical Characteristics of Bouyei Maple Incense Dyeing

Abstract

As an outstanding representative of traditional Chinese resist-dyeing techniques, buyi ethnic group FungXiangDyeing has an important position in Chinese textile cultural system because of its unique resist-dyeing materials and excellent craftsmanship. In this paper we will be exploring the historical development of Fung Xiang, tracing the development of the dye business from the Tang Dynasty, when it was just starting out, all the way until it was listed as a intangible cultural heritage in the modern day. The study looks into the rhythm of appearance, flourishing, decay, and revival in the Song, Yuan, Ming, Qing idalies as well as the modern times and finds out the changing rules of Fung Xian dyinig in material choice, pattern arrangement and cultural use. Research shows that the technical traits of Fung Xiang dyeing have been shaped multidimensionally by natural surroundings, economic trade, societal structures, and ethnic aesthetic values in SWC. In today’s times, Fung Xiang dyeing changes from a old-time useful craft to a new-time artistic shape and a part of culture industry. Not only this study will provide a large number of theoretical basis for understanding the real condition of Buyi FungXiang dyeing technology, but also can provide an important reference for the modernization and sustainable development of traditional craft technology in modern society.