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Local Handicrafts
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2004-10-27
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The
government of the Tibet Autonomous Region stresses development of local traditional handicrafts.
In 2000 this industry, producing more than 2,000 kinds of products, generated
210 million yuan in total output value. The industry is currently divided
into more than 30 specialties. Kadian carpets, other carpets, pulu woolen
fabric, aprons, Tibetan quilts, Tibetan clothing, Tibetan shoes and hats,
Tibetan furniture, wooden bowls, gold and silver jewelry among other handicrafts
are considered particularly significant because, in addition to serving
the particular needs of the local people, they are snapped up by tourists
as souvenirs. Pulu woolens, found mostly in Shannan, Xigaze and Lhasa itself,
are widely produced in Tibetan households. Carpetmaking is a traditional
Tibetan craft. Smaller carpets used to cover the bed, still produced in
the old patterns, are called kadian. Gyangze has long been famous both in
and outside of China for its kadian, with their singular weaving technique
and bright colors. The
Lhasa Carpet Factory and the Gyangze Kadian Factory are joined by countless
small village enterprises producing kadian all over the plateau. The short
sword or knife suspended from the belts of may Tibetans is worn ornamentally,
but is also used for self-defense, in work and elsewhere in daily life.
Major producers of this domestically and internationally well-received product
can be found in Lhasa, Lhaze, Damxung and Yi'ong. Tibetan hats come in various
types, most famously the finely made "gold flower cap," produced
mainly in Lhasa and Xigaze. Made in different styles for men and women,
the hats are quite popular in both the city and the countryside. |
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