How to make ancient candles?

There is an insect parasitic on the trunk and thick branches of a tree. This insect is called "Grey Insect", hence the name "Grey Tree", which is a specialty of China. In this kind of tree, white wax insects are parasitic on the surface and connected together. It eats tree juice and secretes ash. When the harvest comes, cut it into pieces, heat it a little, and separate the ashes. ?

China used this ash in ancient times. This ash is a natural product, and paraffin can't replace insect wax in many aspects. At that time, the wick was made of cotton thread and stood upright in the center of the flame. Because it is impossible to burn out carbonization, it is necessary to cut off the remaining wick ends with scissors from time to time.

According to Xijing Miscellanies, there were candles in the tribute from South Vietnam to Gaudi in the Han Dynasty. It is said that the king will send candles to officials above the marquis and top-grade officials during the Cold Food Festival, indicating that candles were extremely scarce at that time. During the Northern and Southern Dynasties, candles were used a little wider, but they were mainly used for lighting in the upper class, not in the homes of ordinary people.

In the Tang dynasty, it was also recorded that there were candles in Jinzhou's tribute, and officials of the Tang dynasty also set up an official to look after the candles in the palace. It was recorded in the Song Dynasty that there was a candle trade in the border trade with Xixia at that time. Candle, as a kind of foreign trade and foreign exchange, shows that although it was widely used at that time, it was still precious.

After the Ming and Qing Dynasties, candles gradually entered the homes of ordinary people, and people used them more in their daily lives. But ordinary lamps, such as oil lamps and torches, can't be compared.

References:

Baidu encyclopedia entry? candle