Chinese Paper Cutting (剪纸) — A Brief History
Chinese paper cutting (剪纸, jiǎnzhǐ) originated in China
during the Han dynasty (around the 2nd century CE), soon after the
invention of paper. As paper became more accessible, people began cutting
decorative motifs for festivals, rituals, and daily life.
Below are gifts from my cousin Sharon after she return from her overseas study. I often wonder if the product is mass manufactured by machine or piece by piece cut out by human
Traditionally made with scissors or knives from red paper,
paper cuttings were used on windows, doors, and altars, especially
during Lunar New Year and weddings. Common motifs—flowers, animals, children,
and auspicious symbols—expressed wishes for good fortune, fertility, and
protection.
Below are paper cut templates I bought from Chinatown many years back
For centuries, paper cutting was a folk craft passed down
through families, particularly among women, serving both decorative and
educational purposes. Today, it is recognized as an important intangible
cultural heritage of China, continuing to evolve through contemporary art
while preserving its symbolic roots.
Below is a gift from my friend Qinfeng
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