The Ringing and Tinkling Charm of Miao Silverwares

Silver ornaments are indispensable decorations for the Miao people when they dress up for an event. The Miao silverware making technique is a traditional folk craft of the Miao people most famously represented by their head ornaments, silver necklaces and hand jewelries.

A Miao traditional silver ornament is the result of more than 30 making processes such as thread pulling, braiding, and carving after the raw material is melted at a temperature of 960 oC and hammered tens of thousands of times. In 2006, the Miao silverware making technique was listed as a national intangible cultural heritage.

The Miao silver making technique has a rich and colorful cultural connotation. The exquisite silverwares are often found on festive occasions for the symbolic meaning of dispelling evil spirits and welcoming good fortunes. They not only reflect the resourcefulness of the Miao people, but also their characters of being pure and perseverant.

Producer: Yang Gu

Chief Supervisor: Chen Jiandong, Song Leyong

Chief Planner: Che Jingwen, Jin Linghan

Script Writer: Yue Pei

Coordinator: Zhou Shuodi, Tao Yanyan, Yang Jingyi

Co-produced by: China Internet Development Foundation and GMW.cn