At the end of 2022, a documentary with only four episodes went online, "Dunhuang and Venice: Above Desert and Sea". Perhaps Marco Polo's visit to China is the only positive encounter between Dunhuang (敦煌) and Venice in history. They reunited with a new look in this documentary. From east to west, from sand to sea, the Silk Road conveys the most wonderful exchange of materials, culture and people.   East Meets West In 1271, Marco Polo set out from Venice for a long journey and crossed 6,400 kilometers of sand and sea. In his travelogue, he noted down a place called sandbank, which was Dunhuang. In the long river of history, the two seemingly completely irrelevant cities have more connections because of the Silk Road. For example, the cotton weaving of Persia appeared in Dunhuang Tang Dynasty documents and also appeared beside the governor of Venice. The pattern of lotus appeared in the Mogao Grottoes and also in the gorgeous clothes of the Madonna. Lapis lazuli from Afghanistan is not only the profoundest sky in Dunhuang frescoes but also the purest blue in Titian's works. Many traders may not travel the entire length of the Silk Road, but one short…

Directed by Lu Yang, starring Huang Xuan, Wu Yue, Zhang Rongrong, Lu Fangsheng, Wang Shengdi, Jiang Qiming and others, the ancient fantasy drama "The Mutations" is currently being broadcasted. The plot is set in the Tianqi period, telling the story of a sudden outbreak of a plague on a remote island outside Ningyuan City. Chu Sijing, a member of the Jin Yi Wei, secretly investigates and becomes entangled in a series of mysterious and dangerous events. This drama combines fantasy elements with Eastern culture, creating a unique temperament and style, bringing the audience an ultimate sense of freshness. This drama is based on the historical fact of the rampant plague in the late Ming Dynasty. Through the process of investigating the truth of the typhoid fever in Ningyuan City by the Jin Yi Wei, it involves various forces such as Chu Sijing (played by Huang Xuan), Ba Yan, a official (played by Wu Yue), and Captain Angelica, a foreign ship (played by Zhang Rongrong). From Ningyuan City to Ninghai Fortress, and then to Wumo Island, as the investigation deepens, the level of danger gradually increases, and the truth and secrets behind each key character are about to be revealed. The…

I have received a lot of PMs recently, all of them asking me the same question. Do you know or like Li Ziqi or not? Do you think that she can be counted as a sort of Chinese culture export? Of course, before that, I have thought about this for a long time. I started to perceive Li Ziqi from 2017. So I think I have my own perspective of what she's doing, and it's worth sharing. On-screen, Li Ziqi’s life seems to defy the rules of reality. With more than 60 million fans worldwide, the Chinese internet celebrity is famous for her videos, where she performs the work of a farmer with the grace of a fairy. In one video, she picks flowers on horseback in a red cape, invoking the image of Red Riding Hood. In another, she builds an item of bamboo furniture set using traditional Chinese techniques. Li Ziqi rode on a horse Actually, I remember that back in the summer of 2017, she had a lot of haters who were doubting the real intention behind her videos. And then she put out an article that explains how many of the materials she does herself and how much hard work she puts in it…

As a traditional mythological story, the plot of "Investiture of the Gods" is already well-known to us. However, "Creation of the Gods I: Kingdom of Storms" still prepared many surprises for the audience. For example, we can see the presence of many Chinese national treasure-level cultural relics in the props.   01 Horses In the Creation of the Gods, Yin Shou led his military to return triumphantly from Jizhou. The Shang King and Crown Prince Yin Qi sat on a chariot driven by six white horses to welcome them. It is well known that in ancient times, the number of horses and specifications of vehicles were important symbols of identity and status. There were strict ritual regulations regarding this throughout various dynasties. “天子驾六马，诸侯驾四、大夫三、士二、庶人一。” -《逸礼·王度记》"The emperors rides with six horses; feudal lords ride with four; high-ranking officials three; scholars two; commoners one." - Yi Li · Wang Du Ji In addition to consulting ancient books, the film also referenced unearthed cultural relics - such as the discovery of a horse-drawn carriage pit called "Six Imperial Horses" at Luoyang He Luo Cultural Square in 2002. There are 26 buried carriages in total divided into two rows, with their heads facing south and…

The Ming Dynasty Hanfu has always been known by Hanfu lovers for its dignity and elegance. Compared to the Tang and Song dynasties, Ming Hanfu has a large number of excavated artifacts, heirloom paintings, and costumes to serve as references. Therefore, we can have access to a great variety of Hanfu styles from the Ming Dynasty.   Common types of Ming style Shan/Ao The different Ming Dynasty Shan/Ao styles are mainly composed of the elements of collar, bodice, sleeve shape, and length of the clothing. Ling (领, collar): Zhi Ling (直领, straight collar), Yuan Ling (圆领, round collar), Li Ling (立领, stand collar, also known as Shu Ling), Fang Ling (方领, square collar). Jin (襟, bodice): Da Jin (大襟), Dui Jin (对襟), refers to the intersection of the neckline of the clothes, and also refers to the chest part of the clothes. Xiu (袖, sleeve type): Zhai Xiu (窄袖, narrow sleeves), Zhi Xiu (直袖, straight sleeves), Pipa Xiu (琵琶袖, pipa sleeves), Da Xiu (大袖, wide sleeves). Yi Chang (衣长, length of clothes): Chang Shan/Ao (long), Duan Shan/Ao (short). ×: indicates that this style has no basis for the time being ;  * : means this form has been recorded but…

Serious eyes and magnificent scenes make the audience seem to be able to be in the painting. Each painting is powerful and has an impressive presence, and the oriental fantasy narrative is integrated into the painting, which makes people excited. Xiang Yu, the overlord of Western Chu with soaring aspirations. The unruly and uninhibited Monkey King. Tang warriors, who dressed in warrior armor and wore masks in the style of Tang Sancai pottery, guarded the tomb of Li Yuan, the founding emperor of the Tang Dynasty. Xu Zihui, born in Qingdao in 1996, has been in contact with comic strips, sketches and cartoons since childhood, and he has been drawing for 16 years. During his study at the Lu Xun Academy of Fine Arts, he won numerous awards and several heavyweight awards.   Young "veteran artist" Becoming famous at a young age, most people thought he was a genius. But in fact, Xu Zihui's creation in the past few years is also a process of constant transformation. He changes in each bottleneck and doubt, and gains new life in difficulties just as in his painting. During the seven-year undergraduate and master years, the first two years are a learning process,…

Zhou Dynasty In Zhou Dynasty, black was called onyx which represented the color of heaven. Therefore, black wedding dresses are considered very noble at that time. An excerpt found in the "Book of Rites, Suburban Special Sacrifice" stated that Zhou Dynasty weddings were low-key and held in a private manner. No gongs, no drums, or music were heard and the wedding was typically held in the evenings. Wei-Jin Dynasties White wedding dresses can be backtracked to as early as the Wei-Jin Dynasties. During this period, ancient Chinese believed that white is pure, simple, and unpretentious. White corresponded to gold out of the five elements of gold, wood, water, fire, and earth, which happens to align with Jin Dynasty implementation of the Jinde system. Therefore, the emperors of the Jin Dynasty wore white gauze hats. The princes also wore white silk dresses when they got married. More information can be found on the "Book of Jin". Another reason is that during the Wei, Jin, Southern, and Northern Dynasties, wars were rampant, and people generally despaired of reality, began to focus on carpe diem in time, or pursue the illusory Taoist metaphysics. Metaphysics is prevalent, and what people are pursuing is "taking…

As a traditional mythological story, the plot of "Investiture of the Gods" is already well-known to us. However, "Creation of the Gods I: Kingdom of Storms" still prepared many surprises for the audience. For example, we can see the presence of many Chinese national treasure-level cultural relics in the props.   01 Horses In the Creation of the Gods, Yin Shou led his military to return triumphantly from Jizhou. The Shang King and Crown Prince Yin Qi sat on a chariot driven by six white horses to welcome them. It is well known that in ancient times, the number of horses and specifications of vehicles were important symbols of identity and status. There were strict ritual regulations regarding this throughout various dynasties. “天子驾六马，诸侯驾四、大夫三、士二、庶人一。” -《逸礼·王度记》"The emperors rides with six horses; feudal lords ride with four; high-ranking officials three; scholars two; commoners one." - Yi Li · Wang Du Ji In addition to consulting ancient books, the film also referenced unearthed cultural relics - such as the discovery of a horse-drawn carriage pit called "Six Imperial Horses" at Luoyang He Luo Cultural Square in 2002. There are 26 buried carriages in total divided into two rows, with their heads facing south and…

Among the numerous garments of Hanfu, the most popular one is probably the Mamian skirt. As a clothing item full of ethnic style, the skirt is characterized by vibrant colors and unique patterns. Wearing it seems like traveling through time and experiencing the charm of traditional culture. In fact, the Mamian skirt is not a completely new design, its history can be traced back to a hundred years ago. Also known as Mamian pleated skirt, it was one of the main skirt styles for ancient Chinese women. It consists of four skirt doors, both front and back, overlapping in pairs. The outer skirt door is adorned with decorations, while the inner skirt door has fewer or no decorations. The Ma Mian Qun is pleated on the side, and the skirt waist is often made of white fabric, symbolizing a lifelong union. It is fastened with a rope or button. The design of the Mamian skirt highlights symmetry and streamlined shapes, emphasizing the curves of women and creating an elegant and dignified image for the wearer. The charm of the Mamian skirt has actually transcended national borders. At the banquet where Princess Diana was announced as the future royal bride in…

On March 19, the first episode of a new series of "Chinese Solar Terms" created by Henan Radio and Television, "The Adventures in Spring Equinox," was broadcast. Through a short story in a light-hearted and pleasant style, the program talked about the symbolic meaning and characteristics of the "Chun Fen (春分, spring equinox)." In 2021, Henan TV's "Chinese Festivals" series became popular with several traditional dance programs and was praised by netizens for its "Aesthetic Ceiling." The new series of "Chinese Solar Terms" has abandoned the form of songs and dances and expressed the connotation and symbolic meaning of solar terms with drama stories close to the life of the times. The spring equinox has an essential significance in astronomy. The day and night are 12 hours long, which the ancients consider as a day of balance between yin and yang. From the spring equinox, China will gradually enter into the sunny spring, and there are customs such as flying kites, eating spring cuisine, and standing eggs. With this in mind, the creators of the program chose this day to launch the first issue of the "Chinese Solar Terms" series. General director Chen Lei revealed: "Compared to traditional festivals, the solar…

The long-awaited "Fox Spirit Matchmaker: Red-Moon Pact" has finally premiered. Before its release, the number of reservations on the platform has surpassed 7.94 million, breaking the historical record for reservations on iQIYI, igniting tremendous excitement. Adapted from the manga "Fox Spirit Matchmaker" by Xiao Xin Tuo. In a world of constant conflict between humans and spirits, the righteous head of the Tu Mountain Fox Clan, Tu Shan Hong Hong (played by Yang Mi), hopes for peace between both sides. To achieve this, she joins forces with Dongfang Yue Chu (played by Gong Jun), an orphan from the Dongfang family, to embark on a mission to foster love between humans and spirits. Their goal is to resist the dark forces threatening the Tu Mountain and to dissolve the sinister powers fueling the discord between humans and spirits. The stellar cast includes Yang Mi and Gong Jun as the lead actors, with special appearances by Guo Xiaoting, Wei Zheming, Hu Lianxin, and Wen Zhengrong. The three romantic storylines feature the heartfelt performances of Zhu Xudan and Yang Shize, Chen Yao and Mao Zijun, and Chen Duling and Zhang Linghe. With their outstanding looks, acting skills, and popularity, this lineup has stirred up…

In the heart of every Chinese New Year celebration lies a cherished tradition known as lo hei 捞鱼生. This vibrant and joyous custom, also referred to as yusheng, is a colorful raw fish salad that holds deep cultural significance in Chinese communities, particularly in Singapore. What exactly is 'Lo Hei'?  (Photo by: https://asianinspirations.com.au/recipes/prosperity-toss-salad-yu-sheng/) Lo hei, which translates to "tossing good fortune" in Cantonese, embodies the spirit of renewal and optimism associated with the new year. The dish typically consists of thinly sliced raw fish, commonly salmon, accompanied by an array of fresh vegetables, fruits, and condiments. Each ingredient holds symbolic meaning, and the act of tossing the salad high into the air is believed to usher in blessings and prosperity for the year ahead. Origins of the Tradition The origins of lo hei can be traced back to China, where similar customs are practiced during the Lunar New Year festivities. The Ritual of Tossing (捞鱼生步骤） One of the most exhilarating aspects of lo hei is the tossing ritual itself. As the salad is assembled on a large platter, participants use chopsticks to toss the ingredients high into the air while reciting auspicious phrases and well-wishes for the new year. The…

Recently, stars such as Zhong Chuxi, Na Zha, Ni Ni, and Huang Xuan have appeared in the style of the Republic of China period one after another, showing a different kind of charm and appeal. These photos not only made people's eyes light up, but also gave everyone a deeper understanding and recognition of the culture of the Republic of China period. Zhong Chuxi's Republic of China style is both elegant and not lacking in grace. She seems like a beautiful woman who has traveled through time, and exudes charming aura with every moving. Na Zha is shown in the style of a pure and mischievous student in the Republic of China, with two braided braids and wearing a uniform, full of youthful vitality, making people recall the green campus time. Ni Ni originally is a temperamental goddess, and after putting on a cheongsam, it appears even more noble and elegant. Huang Xuan is in a suit of the Republic of China period, and is graceful. The two standing together are simply a pair of golden boys and jade girls, and the picture is so beautiful that it makes people suffocate. These stars' Republic of China styles not only show…

In the just-finished 2022 Spring/Summer Shanghai Fashion Week, I wonder if you found your favorite style in so many beautiful modern clothes? In the general environment and background of the increasing revival of traditional culture, many brands have chosen Chinoiserie fashion with national culture as the keynote. We know that only by truly integrating our traditional culture into modern life is there a true revival of culture. In Shanghai Fashion Week, these designer brands present Hanfu with national culture at its core, and they are committed to focusing on the new era concept of reviving traditional Han Chinese clothing and giving fashion a newborn aesthetic. Through creative fusion infused with Chinese aesthetic elements, the major brands tell the history and interpret the national culture in a way that young people can understand. However, these designs still use the western system of traditional Chinese clothing to make a western fashion transformation with collage of various elements. Although there is a very long way to go before the real return, this way can also show the wisdom of the ancient people in a multi-dimensional way with a fashion vocabulary easily understood by modern people, which is a good start anyway, and we…