Beijing Oiled Paper Umbrella Factory (Preserving a Traditional Craft)

The Beijing Oiled Paper Umbrella Factory is a renowned traditional Chinese craftsman that has been in operation since the Ming Dynasty. The factory is located in the Xuanwu district of Beijing, China, and is known for producing exquisite oiled paper umbrellas.

The oiled paper umbrella is a traditional Chinese umbrella that is made with bamboo and oiled paper. The umbrellas are known for their durability, water resistance, and intricate designs. The oiled paper umbrella has been an important part of Chinese culture for centuries and is often used in traditional Chinese performances and ceremonies.

The Beijing Oiled Paper Umbrella Factory was founded in 1850 during the Qing Dynasty. The factory has been passed down through generations of craftsmen and has remained in operation for over 170 years. The factory is now run by Mr. Zhang, the eighth-generation owner of the factory.

The factory produces a variety of oiled paper umbrellas, including the classic black umbrella with gold designs, as well as umbrellas with intricate paintings of landscapes, flowers, and animals. The factory also produces parasols, fans, and other traditional Chinese crafts.

The craftsmen at the Beijing Oiled Paper Umbrella Factory use traditional techniques to create their umbrellas. The process begins with selecting the best bamboo and oiled paper. The bamboo is cut and shaped into the frame of the umbrella, and the oiled paper is cut and painted with intricate designs.

The oiled paper is then attached to the frame of the umbrella, and the craftsmen carefully fold and shape the umbrella to create its unique shape. The umbrellas are then coated with a special oil that gives them their water-resistant properties.

The Beijing Oiled Paper Umbrella Factory is not only a place to buy traditional Chinese crafts, but it is also a museum that showcases the history of the oiled paper umbrella. Visitors can learn about the history of the factory and watch the craftsmen at work.

The factory has received numerous awards for its craftsmanship and has been recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage of China. The Beijing Oiled Paper Umbrella Factory is a testament to the importance of preserving traditional crafts and the value they bring to our world.

Introduction:

The Beijing Oiled Paper Umbrella Factory is a small, family-run business that has been preserving the traditional craft of making oiled paper umbrellas for over a century. The factory is located in the heart of Beijing’s old city and has been producing high-quality umbrellas since 1898.

History:

The tradition of making oiled paper umbrellas in China dates back over 1,000 years. In ancient China, oiled paper umbrellas were a symbol of status and were often used by the wealthy and elite. Over time, the production of oiled paper umbrellas became more widespread and they were used by people from all walks of life.

In 1898, the Beijing Oiled Paper Umbrella Factory was founded by a master craftsman named Zhang Yiyuan. Zhang had learned the craft of making oiled paper umbrellas from his father and grandfather, who were also master craftsmen. He saw the need for high-quality umbrellas in Beijing and decided to open his own factory to meet the demand.

Craftsmanship:

The process of making oiled paper umbrellas is a complex and time-consuming one. It involves several steps, including cutting the bamboo ribs, preparing the paper, painting the designs, and applying the oil. Each step requires skill and precision, and the craftsmen at the Beijing Oiled Paper Umbrella Factory are experts in their craft.

The umbrellas produced by the factory are known for their durability and beauty. The paper used is specially treated with oil to make it waterproof, and the bamboo ribs are carefully selected for their strength and flexibility. The designs painted on the umbrellas are intricate and often depict scenes from Chinese folklore and history.

Preservation:

In recent years, the tradition of making oiled paper umbrellas has been in danger of dying out. Many young people are not interested in learning the craft, and the demand for mass-produced umbrellas has made it difficult for small, family-run businesses to compete.

However, the Beijing Oiled Paper Umbrella Factory is committed to preserving this traditional craft. They offer workshops and classes to teach people how to make oiled paper umbrellas, and they have also worked to promote the umbrellas to a wider audience. Their efforts have been successful, and the factory continues to thrive today.

Conclusion:

The Beijing Oiled Paper Umbrella Factory is a testament to the beauty and durability of traditional crafts. By preserving the art of making oiled paper umbrellas, they are helping to keep an important part of Chinese culture alive. If you ever find yourself in Beijing, be sure to visit the factory and see the craftsmen at work. You won’t be disappointed!