Chinese Classical Batik Tablecloth-Double Fishes Playing Water

Origin:Kunming of Yunnan

Wax printing is an ancient handicraft in China, which dated back to Qin and Han Dynasties (221 BC¨C 220 AD). The hand-made wax printing technique had been lost through civilization except those preserved by the Miao ethnic group located in the remote mountainous area of Southwest China (primaryly Guizhou, Sichuan, and Yunan).
To produce this beautiful artwork, artist needs to place the wax on a piece of cotton cloth by using a specifically made wax knife for the desired pattern, and then to dye the cloth for the colour, followed by melting the wax.
Wax printing has been recognized as the foundation of ancient Chinese civilization in dyeing and weaving technology. United Nation Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has recently reported to the United Nation (UN) the Miao costume decorations as one of the world cultural relics, including the traditional Miao wax printing.
The Miao batik designs are plain, naive, rough and powerful. Its shapes, not confining itself to exact details of natural images, are boldly diversified and exaggeratedly drawn. The diversity and exaggeration is out of pure imagination, and infinitely breathtakingly charming. The diversified designs are in geometric shape and that of natural images, which generally stem from human life or elegant legends and characterized with rich folk color. Batik is both a kind of ancient art and young and modern art. Its summarized succinct modeling, the pure bright color and the exaggeratedly-distorted decorative design meet the need of modern life, therefore, suit the modern aesthetic requirements.

Rich Artistic Connotation & Historical Background

This artwork is a Chinese classical embroidered tablecloth depicting two fish playing in the water.

This art form originated in ancient China and has a long history and rich cultural significance.

It showcases the vivid scenery of nature through exquisite embroidery techniques, while also conveying people's yearning for a better life and pursuit of a harmonious environment.

The work employs traditional Chinese embroidery techniques, integrating delicate threadwork into the fabric to create a unique visual effect.

The two fish in the picture swim freely in the water, their movements lively and rhythmic, giving off a playful and adorable vibe.

The entire scene exudes a tranquil and harmonious atmosphere, allowing people to appreciate the beauty of nature and the vitality of life.

In addition to its artistic value, this piece also serves a practical purpose.

As a tablecloth, it can be used to decorate dining tables or office desks, adding elegance and comfort to people's living and working spaces.

Its design also reflects the love and respect for natural landscapes and the pursuit of a harmonious life that are deeply ingrained in Chinese traditional culture.

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