Most Chinese diasporas and non-Chinese would immediately think of jadeite/feicui, the luscious green stone as Chinese Jade and they would not associate gemstones of the west with traditional Chinese jewellery. The fun fact is that Western gemstones have a far longer history in Chinese jewellery than jadeite feicui, and the Chinese concept of Yu (or […]| Hanfugirl
It’s that time of the year again, when nationalists all around the world start debating if it should be Chinese New Year or Lunar New Year, completely ignoring the fact that both terms are equally problematic. Let’s just admit that we’ll never have a settlement on this but just for the fun of it, I […]| Hanfugirl
So we were talking about the thriving trade of the East and the West market of Tang, so before we go into the actual content of their trading business, this is an interesting post on regulations during the Tang period, and how it was business-friendly and anti-corruption. Singaporeans might find this particularly interesting because this was 1,300 years ago!| Hanfugirl
Dive into the enchanting world of ancient commerce as we explore the bustling markets of Chang’An during the Tang dynasty—a shopping paradise that rivals modern-day experiences! Discover how vibrant bazaars filled with luxurious goods and exotic treasures created a cultural melting pot, reflecting the diverse tastes of their time. As we gear up for our end-of-year Ganji Bazaar, we invite you to join us in celebrating this rich heritage, where the past meets the present. Get ready to shop ...| Hanfugirl
There is a type of Chinese jadestone that can shapeshift between the two types of Western-defined jade—Nephrite & Jadeite. Yet, it is not considered jade in modern definition despite being the original jade used by the Chinese since the Neolithic period. This article will be a visual feast with historical background on this jade stone that is quintessentially Chinese.| Hanfugirl
Before Jadeite was the craze, Nephrite was the de-facto jade for the Chinese literati and aristocrats and this tradition went back to over 2,000 years ago. Prior to that, jade were used for more ritual and ceremonial purposes and it was around the Warring State era that jade took on a more mortal and moralising role (although still remaining its importance as a ritual item).| Hanfugirl
It’s that time of the year when those with a piece of Cheongsam would dust it off in preparation for the Chinese New Year. Somewhere, lurking in the dark, is Cheongsam’s Lost Twin—The Manchurian Riding Jacket. While the Cheongsam enjoyed its 20th century glamour by being closely associated to the Chinese feminist movement at the […]| Hanfugirl
Jadeite, was neither indigenous to the Chinese, nor considered jade by traditional Chinese terms. This article traces the origin of the name Feicui for Jadeite, and how jadeite turned from a valueless Jade-wannabe stone, to its celebrity status today. This is part of the Jaded series leading up to the Chinese New Year celebration.| Hanfugirl
The feather inlay jewellery embellishing craft is one that has thousands of years of history. This article gives an overview of the craft and its historical references, as well as introduces the mo…| Hanfugirl
An exploration into the ancient history and culture of the Chinese and her neighbouring countries, told through a female-centric perspective through fashion, art, music, dance, mythology, literature and craftmanship that is both accessible and relatable to modern western-centric audiences.| Hanfugirl