Nanjing Lanterns

Nanjing Lanterns

　　A specialty of Jiangsu—Nanjing Lanterns, also known as "flower lanterns," are a cultural product of China’s traditional agricultural era, combining both practical use and artistic features.

　　 Specialty Culture: The origin of flower lanterns dates back to Emperor Wu of Han, who set up an altar in the imperial palace on the 15th day of the first lunar month to worship Taiyi, the most revered deity of the time. As the ceremony lasted all night, lanterns had to be lit throughout the night to provide illumination. This marked the beginning of lighting lanterns during the Lantern Festival. After Buddhism was introduced to China from India, the devout practice of lighting lamps in Buddhism merged with Taoist immortality rituals, resulting in a unique custom that blended Chinese and Western elements. On the night of the 15th day of the first lunar month, cities and villages alike were illuminated with lights, and people from all walks of life hung lanterns, creating a distinctive tradition.

　　 Specialty Function: Nanjing Lanterns (flower lanterns) are generally divided into several categories, including hanging lanterns, pedestal lanterns, wall lanterns, and hand-held lanterns. They are crafted from materials such as bamboo, wood, silk, satin, glass beads, jade pendants, tassels, feathers, and shells. Through techniques like colorful binding, paper mounting, weaving, embroidery, carving, and decorations such as paper-cuttings, calligraphy, paintings, and poetry, they are made into comprehensive handicrafts and represent a traditional folk art form in China. Lanterns can beautify urban nightscapes and signal the arrival of festivals.