National Intangible Cultural Heritage Project | Shanghai Lantern Craft (1601)

| Shanghai Lantern Craft (1601). The lantern craft (Shanghai Lantern Craft), a traditional fine art in Luwan District of Shanghai, is one of the national intangible cultural heritages. Shanghai Lantern Craft developed from the folk lantern craft in the early 20th century. It is known for its intricate patterns and bright colors, and was once popular in the western districts of Shanghai such as Zhenru and Dachang. The artisans created lanterns like 'Wanjia Huichun Lantern', 'Embroidered Ball Lantern', 'Green Lion Lantern', and 'Lotus Lantern', all of which have a simple folk charm, clever design, harmonious and bold coloring, beautiful and durable shapes, and fine craftsmanship. In the old days, the areas around Baixian Bridge and the Old City God Temple in Shanghai were also bustling places for enjoying lanterns during the Lantern Festival. Modern Shanghai lantern craft has inherited the excellent skills of ancient lantern craft, not only constantly updating the materials used, including hemp, gauze, silk, glass, etc., but also offering a richer variety of lanterns, including canopy lanterns, horse lanterns, palace lanterns, and three-dimensional animal lanterns. On June 7, 2008, the lantern craft (Shanghai Lantern Craft) was approved by the State Council to be included in the second batch of the national intangible cultural heritage list, with the project number VII-50.