RESEARCH ON THE VISUAL-ART CHARACTERISTICS AND CULTURAL CONNOTATIONS OF HAN EMBROIDERY IN THE JINGCHU REGION

Abstract

Han embroidery is an important traditional embroidery craft in the Jingchu region, combining intangible cultural heritage value with functions of cultural identification. This study focuses on Jingchu Han embroidery and adopts a qualitative approach: using literature and case studies of embroidery works, as well as semi-structured interviews, and employing thematic analysis to summarize four categories of visual characteristics patterns, colors, composition, and embroidery techniques followed by an interpretation of its cultural connotations (historical memory, regional symbolism, folk-cultural meanings, and cultural value) and its relation to Jingchu aesthetic preferences. The findings show that Jingchu Han embroidery has a stable style characterized by a freehand “dynamic sketching” approach to form, layered color effects with gold-thread arrangement, a full yet well-ordered compositional system with preserved “embroidery ground,” and the “qi-ping-shun” control of stitch work. Its cultural meanings are activated in usage contexts such as weddings, longevity celebrations, and festivals. The study also identifies issues including transmission challenges and insufficient youth participation, and proposes strengthening documentation and modern communication to promote sustained inheritance.

Keywords: Han Embroidery, Jingchu Region, Visual-Art Characteristics, Cultural Connotations