Tie-dyeing in Dali
Historical Background
Dali tie-dyeing, a traditional handicraft of the Bai ethnic group in Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, is an ancient manual dyeing technique with a history of over 1,000 years. Known historically as “扎缬” (Zhá Xié), it originated in the Central Plains region and later spread to southwestern minority areas, particularly taking root in Dali. According to historical records, as early as the Eastern Han Dynasty, there were dyeing and weaving techniques in the Dali area. During the Tang Dynasty, the Nanzhao dance troupe presented costumes dyed with this technique to the imperial court in Chang’an. By the Ming and Qing Dynasties, the dyeing and weaving skills in the Bai region had reached a high level, with the emergence of dyeing guilds and popular products like the “Ehai Wei Red Cloth” and “Xizhou Cloth” .
Craftsmanship
Dali tie-dyeing involves a complex process of manual creation, typically using natural plant dyes such as indigo (板蓝根). The main steps include:
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Designing and Drawing Patterns: Creating intricate designs on white cotton fabric.
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Tying and Knotting: Using threads to bind the fabric into various shapes.
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Dyeing: Immersing the tied fabric in natural dyes multiple times.
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Washing and Drying: Removing the bindings and washing the fabric to reveal the final pattern.
The technique produces unique, non-replicable patterns with a soft texture and vibrant colors. The Bai people have innovated the traditional single-color dyeing to develop colorful dyeing, which emphasizes the coordination of multiple colors and the unity of color, creating different artistic effects through variations in stitching width, tightness, and density .
Cultural Significance
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Symbolism: The blue and white colors of Dali tie-dyeing symbolize the tranquility and depth of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, reflecting the Bai people’s respect for nature and their pursuit of a harmonious life. White is considered auspicious, while blue represents hope, simplicity, and sincerity. The combination of blue and white signifies “purity and integrity” .
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Artistic Value: Each piece is a unique work of art, showcasing the Bai people’s creativity and aesthetic sensibilities. The patterns are often inspired by common animals and plants, such as butterflies, bees, and flowers, reflecting the Bai people’s close connection to nature .
Innovation and Heritage
In recent years, Dali tie-dyeing has evolved to include colorful patterns and modern designs, expanding its applications to clothing, bags, and home decor. The technique has also gained international recognition, with products exported to countries like Japan, the UK, and the US. Local artisans have developed innovative products, such as using walnut shells for dyeing, which not only enhances colorfastness but also provides mosquito-repellent properties .
Cultural Protection
In 2006, Bai ethnic tie-dyeing was listed as one of China’s first national intangible cultural heritage projects. Efforts to preserve and promote this traditional craft continue through museums, workshops, and cultural events. The Puzhen Bai Ethnic Tie-Dye Museum in Zhoucheng Village, Dali, is China’s first Bai ethnic tie-dye museum and a national production-based protection demonstration base. It has collected and preserved over 1,800 traditional patterns, 3,600 templates, and 700 traditional tie-dye items, providing valuable resources for the传承 (inheritance) of this craft .
Modern Applications and Market
Dali tie-dyeing has become an important cultural symbol and tourist attraction. Zhoucheng Village, known as the “Hometown of Ethnic Tie-Dye,” attracts numerous visitors annually. The village has 15 tie-dye experience workshops, hosting over 600,000 visitors each year and generating annual sales of over 70 million yuan. The “non-heritage + tourism” model has not only increased the visibility and market influence of tie-dyeing but also created economic opportunities for the local community, enhancing the quality of life for villagers .
Dali tie-dyeing is not only a cultural treasure of the Bai people but also a bridge connecting traditional craftsmanship with modern art, embodying the rich heritage of Yunnan’s ethnic cultures. Its unique artistic charm and cultural significance continue to inspire both local artisans and international audiences.
