Watch the video to learn about Evgeniya Kim's exploration of Yueqing thin line paper-cut from master practitioner Chen Yuhua. [Video/Wenzhou Overseas Media Center]
Evgeniya Kim, an Uzbekistani woman who is fond of Chinese culture, recently paid a visit to Chen Yuhua, a master practitioner of the thin line paper-cutting technique, a national intangible cultural heritage item that originated in Yueqing city in East China's Zhejiang province.
Yueqing thin line paper-cutting works are different from those made using the plain and bold northern style as it is more exquisite and bears rich southern Chinese characteristics.
According to historical records, Yueqing thin line paper-cutting first appeared and was popular in the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) as decorations on dragon lanterns for the Lantern Festival. Lanterns of various styles were hung on dragon boats to ward off evil and pray for blessings. Thin line paper-cutting works were also used as decorations on dragon boats, with patterns varying from flowers, birds and beasts, and landscapes to theatrical figures and legendary characters.
In addition to soft and thin paper, the technique also requires four sharp knives with different blades. Ten to 20 pieces of paper are usually pressed together before they are cut.
