Chinese paper-cuts can be dated back to the Eastern Han Dynasty. It was Cai Lun who invented paper which is regarded as flexible, versatile and adaptable. In the Tang Dynasty, paper-cuts became a subject of poems. Paper cutting is now an art form in many different countries; however, China is the only country which includes it as part of its ancient traditional culture and heritage. On May 20, 2006, Chinese paper cutting was officially recongnized as National Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Significance of Paper-cuts
Today, Chinese paper-cuts are used for religious and ceremonial purposes. They are buried with the dead and burned at funerals. They were also used as offerings to ancestors and the gods.
Additionally, paper-cuts are chiefly used as decorations. They are also to be used as patterns, especially for embroidery and lacquer wears. They can also adorn walls, windows, doors, columns, mirrors, lamps and lanterns in homes. Chinese people believe that the red paper-cuts on the door can bring good luck and happiness to the whole family. The paper-cuts are more often seen during traditional Chinese festivals, particularly in Chinese New Year, the Spring Festival. They are also given as presents or gifts to good friends or other family members. In Chinese traditional culture, paper-cuts can reflect many aspects of life such as prosperity, health, or harvest.
During the Spring Festival, the character “ Fu (福)” is pasted upside down on the door to express people’s wish for the coming of happiness.
When a man and woman get married, the red paper-cuts with the character “Xi (囍)” is a traditional decoration. It is believed that this paper-cut will bring the new couple happiness.
At a birthday party of an older person, paper-cuts with the character “Shou (寿)” are often seen.
