News & Events

   On September 28, the School of International Education held a study activity on the intangible cultural heritage of Song Brocade with the theme of "Exploring the Millennium Charm of Song Brocade, Inheriting the Craftsmanship Spirit of Intangible Cultural Heritage". All international students of the university had an immersive experience of Song Brocade, a Chinese intangible cultural heritage, and felt its artistic charm and cultural depth spanning thousands of years.

   Originating in the Spring and Autumn Period and flourishing in the Song Dynasty, Song Brocade is known as the "Crown of Brocades" for its exquisite craftsmanship, elegant patterns and gorgeous colors. During the activity, Liu Xikun started with the historical origin of Song Brocade, and introduced in detail its development process from being used exclusively by the imperial court to being popular among the people, as well as its craft characteristics and uses, demonstrating its important position in the history of Chinese silk.

   In the pattern appreciation session, international students showed great interest in classic patterns such as "Badayun Pattern" (Eight-Point), "Baoxianghua Pattern" (Treasure Elephant Flower Pattern) and "Guibei Pattern" (Turtle Back Pattern). These patterns are not only exquisitely designed, but also contain auspicious meanings such as good fortune, longevity and health. Integrating natural images and philosophical thoughts, they have become a visual language for interpreting traditional Chinese aesthetics and spiritual pursuit.

  Hands-on practice was the highlight of this study activity. Under the guidance of teachers, international students made Song Brocade pearl paintings and hair accessories by themselves. From fabric cutting, pattern design to accessory pasting and finished product assembly, they showed great concentration and patience. What flowed through their fingertips was not only craftsmanship, but also an understanding of and respect for the craftsmanship spirit of "one inch of Song Brocade is worth one inch of gold".

  This activity is not only a dissemination of intangible cultural heritage craftsmanship, but also an in-depth cross-cultural dialogue. With its unique artistic language, Song Brocade connects the aesthetic resonance between ancient and modern times, at home and abroad, allowing the excellent traditional Chinese culture to take on a new vitality from an international perspective. In the future, the school will continue to promote such in-depth cultural study activities, taking intangible cultural heritage as a medium to promote cultural exchanges and mutual learning, and enabling traditional Chinese culture to shine more brilliantly on the world stage.