The love affair between Chinese and Chinese knots began with their invention, intensified during the Qing dynasty, died down for a while in the early 20th century, and gradually regained popularity in 21st century. Most knots are made of a single thread less than 1 meter in length, but they are nevertheless admired for their exquisite, imaginative craftsmanship. Many shops in Beijing have cultured, unique Chinese knots that smart tourists and tour groups are sure to check out.

Used mainly as an auspicious decorative object, Chinese knots are most commonly seen on the door of a house, the wall of a room, on clothing, and as decorations on gifts. They come in both large and small sizes, depending on the use, and there are a variety of classic designs that have developed over the years. Though sometimes thought of as an accessory that merely accompanies larger items, some knots never fail to stand out with their conspicuous beauty. Red is the most popular color used, because this color symbolizes fortune and happiness in Chinese culture.

Evidence suggests that the Chinese already started designing knots for a variety of uses in prehistoric times. But only during the Tang and Song dynasties did Chinese knots become a complex art form. Ever since then, these decorative objects have taken an important role in people’s life. What started as a folk art only practiced in private developed into a formal art practiced by serious artists. During this time, people began to decorate almost every household item with an exquisite Chinese knot.

This art was almost lost in the early 20th century as China entered an era of modernization. Then, many people viewed such knots as out of date and having little practical application. In the late 1970s an artist named Lydia Chen revived this art in Taiwan, after which Chinese knots started to flourish again and became more and more popular.

Chinese knots come in both simple and complex designs. There are models that beginners can use to tie a simple knot with minimum effort. Professional artists often spend a long time creating a complex knot that twists around in almost impossible directions. Though designs vary, most knots are symmetrical and look identical from the front and back.

Following is a list of 10 main types of Chinese knots made by modern artists:

1. Double Coin Knot

2. Chinese Button Knot

3. Oxalis Knot

4. Round Brocade Knot

5. Cross Knot

6. Good Luck Knot

7. Sauvastika Knot

8. Pan Chang Knot

9. Caisson Ceiling Knot

10. Ping Knot

A number of classic designs are commonly depicted. They include “Double Shou” (longevity), “Double Xi” (happiness), “Auspicious Dragon And Phoenix,” “Fish Jumping Over The Dragon Gate,” “Fu Xi Shuang Quan” (fortune and longevity), “Everything Goes Well,” and “Extra Good Luck.”

In Chinese, “knot” is pronounced like “connection.” For this reason, people use Chinese knots to symbolize cultural concepts like marriage, friendship, family unity, brotherhood, and the formation of a special sect or community.

When shopping in Beijing, go look for some exquisite, unique Chinese knots. Some special shops offer especially beautiful knots. To find these shops, it’s best to go with a personal shopper.

Tags: Asia

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