The origin of lanterns

Lanterns originated in the Han Dynasty. People made lanterns for lighting and decoration.

There is no exact record about the origin of lanterns in history. However, according to archaeological discoveries and literature speculation, as early as the Western Zhou Dynasty, people may have begun to use torches and oil lamps as lighting tools, and lanterns gradually evolved on this basis. According to historical records, the earliest lanterns appeared in the Han Dynasty. People began to make lanterns out of silk and bamboo and put candles and other lighting objects in them.

These lanterns not only have lighting function, but also have exquisite appearance and unique shape. They are often hung under the eaves or in the yard as a decorative lighting facility.

During the Sui and Tang Dynasties, the technology of making lanterns developed greatly. Not only materials are diverse, such as paper, silk, wood, bamboo and so on. And the shapes are also different, such as round, square and hexagon. At this time, lanterns have begun to enter the homes of ordinary people and become the daily decorative lighting of festivals.

During the Song and Yuan Dynasties, lanterns were made more finely, and many beautifully painted lanterns appeared. At the same time, there are more kinds of lanterns, such as palace lanterns, gauze lanterns and chandeliers. At this time, lanterns have become an important part of China traditional culture.

Cultural significance of lanterns

1. Lighting tools: As a lighting tool, lanterns provided convenience for the lives of ancient people. In ancient times when there was no electric light, lanterns were the main tools for people to illuminate at night, which had an important impact on people's production and life.

2. Decorative artworks: As decorative artworks, lanterns have rich aesthetic value. Its shape, color and pattern all reflect the aesthetic concept and artistic creativity of ancient people in China. At the same time, lanterns are also one of the symbols of China traditional culture, representing the cultural heritage and spiritual pursuit of the Chinese nation.

3. Symbolic significance: Lantern has rich symbolic significance in China traditional culture. It symbolizes reunion, celebration and good luck. On traditional festivals such as Spring Festival and Lantern Festival, people hang red lanterns, symbolizing celebration and reunion. At the same time, lanterns also symbolize hope and light. People often use lanterns as symbols to pray for hope and light in trouble.

Baidu encyclopedia-lantern