Huanggang Willow Weaving Craft

Originated in the late 17th century, Huanggang willow weaving craft has a long history with profound and rich cultural background. At the end of the Ming and early Qing dynasties, the willow weaving industry flourished. According to Records of Yingzhou written during the reign of Emperor Zhu Houzhao of the Ming Dynasty, “Huaimeng abounds with osier. Pick them up and process. They will be white as jade, pliable and tough as rattan”. Willow weaving craftworks are exquisite and the extremely valuable folk craft has been passed down by generations of artisans. Craftworks are elegant with classic simplicity of very high artistic value after being colored and dyed. They are durable, simple, decent, pollution-free and purely natural, gaining popularity at home and abroad. Willow weaving craft has played a positive role in the work and life of the people on both sides of the Huaihe River as well as in the history of culture, art and social development for quite a long time. It is of great significance to inherit, protect and develop this valuable historical and cultural heritage.