Tens of thousands of years ago, early man developed the knots to hold clothing items made from fur together. They are still used as buttons today in traditional Chinese clothing. The history of the knots, or the tying of two cords together, may have started around 100,000 years ago, according to the Middlesex County, New Jersey, Cultural and Heritage Commission and the website, Chinese Moods.
Early knots did not stand the test of time
Because the knots were made of natural substances, none of the early knots have survived, although archaeologists have found bone needles used for sewing and utensils used to untie knots that date back 100,000 years.
Thousands of years later, before written characters had been invented, the knots were used for record keeping. Evidence of knotting has been found inscribed on wine vessels dating back to the Warring States period (481-221 BC).
Decorative knot uses became popular in Tang Dynasty
Practical uses for the knots continued for centuries, but it wasn’t until the Tang Dynasty (618-907) that Chinese knots began being used for decorative purposes. Today, knots are used for a plethora of decorative purposes: traditional costumes, wall hangings as well as decorations on jewelry boxes, to name just a few uses.
The art of making Chinese knots was almost lost during the Cultural Revolution (1966-1976) but is making a comeback today. The art also is gaining in popularity with crafters around the world. Items made from Chinese knots are especially popular during Spring Festival, a celebration known outside China as Chinese New Year.
Silk cord is primary material in knots
For centuries, the knots were made only of red silk rope. Red is the traditional color of good luck and long life in China, but other colors such as blue, green and yellow are gaining in popularity today. The cords used vary in thickness, with thinner cords or string used in jewelry and small decorations, while large cords are used for items such as wall hangings.
The Chinese use a dozen different knots, known as macramé in some cultures. Each knot is made from one continuous length of silk rope or cord, with the front and back sides being identical. Each knot has a meaning. For example, the fish-shaped knot is one of the most popular because it means ongoing abundancy, says the website Cultural China. Some knots are Chinese characters, such as fu, which means blessings, or shou, which means longevity.
Resources
- China Daily, “Chinese Knots Back in Chic,” November 4, 2011
- China Highlights
- Chinese Knotting for Beaded Jewelry, Suzen Millodot
Cheryl Probst - Cheryl Probst is an award-winning photojournalist who specializes in writing about motorcycles, China and the Pacific Northwest.
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