Emeralds are gemstones that are as ancient as the Earth itself. The oldest specimens date back 2.97 billion years and the first mines were established in Egypt around 1500 BC. In Chinese couture, these luminous stones solve the dilemma of blending timeless tradition with the desire for exclusive, luxurious expression. Their deep green allure has captivated hearts and adorned the luxurious world of Chinese couture for centuries. This article explains how emeralds have become synonymous with luxury and tradition in Chinese couture by transforming everyday fashion into a canvas of cultural storytelling and opulent taste. Read on to discover the journey of emeralds from royal dynasties to modern runways, and see how they continue to define sophistication and elegance in high fashion. Historical Roots of Emeralds in Chinese Culture Emeralds have held a revered place in the history of Chinese jewelry. They're often seen as symbols of prosperity and renewal. Historically, these vibrant gemstones were favored by royalty and nobility. They were embedded into the crowns and robes that graced the courts of ancient Chinese dynasties. Such pieces weren't merely ornamental but also served as amulets of good fortune and indicators of status. The Ming Dynasty, in particular, saw emeralds…

Spring, the revival of nature, brings new life and hope. As everything is renewed, hanfu enthusiasts are also looking for inspiration for the new season's outfits. Spring is the perfect time to show off the style of hanfu, with the perfect combination of light fabrics, bright colors and classical designs, displaying an irresistible charm. In this article, we'll take a look at the latest trends in hanfu for spring 2024, so let's step into a fashion world full of classical beauty and feel the perfect blend of ancient style and modern aesthetics.   Spring Dressing in Ancient China Shan (衫, shirts) and Ao (袄, jackets) are garments frequently worn in the springtime within the traditional hanfu attire. Typically crafted from lighter, more delicate materials such as brocade and silk, they suit the climatic characteristics of spring. The Banbi (半臂, half-sleeve shirt), owing to its lightweight nature, is especially popular during this season. It can serve both as an inner shirt and as an outer garment. Highlighting the interlined garments that provide warmth without causing overheating, thus becoming the favored choice in spring hanfu. These consist of a single layer underneath with a silk outer layer. Since the pre-Qin period, it…

From the imperial capital to Jinyang, following the footsteps of Gu Yanxi and Hua Zhi, the audience who are deeply concerned about the fate and destiny of the Hua and Gu families breathe a sigh of relief. As far as the eye can see, the most common sentiment expressed by the audience is, "This is a work that brings a sense of happiness." Since the premiere of "Blossoms in Adversity," the accumulated valid viewership has reached a staggering 1.133 billion according to data, with an average valid viewership per episode ranking among the 30 million+ club, securing the top spot on the weekly popularity chart for web dramas. Undoubtedly, in the Q2 2024 drama market, this ancient costume legendary drama, which is based on the grand theme of "family and the country" and takes root and sprouts under the nourishment of traditional culture, has resonated with both the audience within and outside the play, reaching a mutual understanding and achieving a two-way convergence at the peak meeting. Leading in both word-of-mouth and popularity dimensions, it brings increasingly valuable reflections to the industry: where does the emotional connection between ancient costume dramas and young audiences of today lie? What is the…

If granted the opportunity to travel back in time, returning to the Tang Dynasty would undoubtedly be a splendid choice. Currently, there is an exhibition that can make this dream a reality. Exhibition: "The Prosperous of Zhenguan - The Magnificent Era of Li Shimin" Dates: May 1, 2024 - August 25, 2024 Location: National Museum of Classic Books The exhibition's title is straightforward, primarily focusing on the Tang Emperor Li Shimin, known as Taizong, a figure familiar to us all. What resonates most is his era known as the "Zhenguan Reign." However, the historical accounts in textbooks are so brief that the image of Emperor Taizong portrayed is merely that of a wise ruler who valued advice. In reality, he had a military background, and his life story remains largely unknown to us. This exhibition aims to present him and that historical period in a more vivid and tangible manner. With 249 precious artifacts from 15 museums nationwide, it transports us back to that era of prosperity, peace, inclusivity, and openness. Among these exhibits are some significant pieces, such as the gilded and painted military and civil figurines, the portrait of a lady from the Duan Jianbi tomb, and the…

In our historical memory, there is such an ancient city: here, King Wuling of Zhao implemented the Hu-style clothing and archery, cultivating a dominant northern power that could rival the Qin Dynasty among the seven warring states; Emperor Gaozu of Han, Liu Bang, battled fiercely against the Xiongnu, marking the rise of the Great Han Empire and engaging in ultimate clashes with the peak period lords of the grasslands; Emperor Xiaowen of Northern Wei carried out reforms here, sowing the seeds of a prosperous era, as writer Yu Qiuyu praised, "China advanced towards the Tang Dynasty from here." This is city Datong. In this article, let us follow the Di Dao Feng Wu to understand this city together. In recent years, more and more people have rediscovered Shanxi, uncovering the dazzling ancient architectural treasure trove hidden behind the coal and vinegar; and more and more attention has been drawn to Datong, this understated ancient city just over 330 kilometers away from Beijing. People flock here, marveling at the grandiose rebuilt city walls, lingering in the magnificent and exquisite Yungang Grottoes that have stood for a thousand years, and being amazed by the Hanging Monastery perched on the cliff; yet this…

The 29th Shanghai TV Festival is scheduled to be held from June 24th to 28th. The submission for the Magnolia Awards began at the end of last year and concluded on March 31st this year, with the expected announcement of the shortlisted candidates in May. The selection of Chinese dramas for this edition of the Magnolia Awards showcases outstanding productions aired from the second quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2024. Both television and web series are eligible for consideration, be they long or short formats. During this evaluation period of the Magnolia Awards, there has been a shift in the creative direction and aesthetic appeal of Chinese dramas, resulting in a crop of exquisite works and emerging talents in the industry. The artistic quality of series has reached new heights, fostering greater resonance and crossover between young and older audiences.   Exquisite Suspense Dramas Police dramas have the largest audience base globally. Chinese police dramas achieved remarkable success around the year 2000 before experiencing a decade of silence. With the rise of online video platforms, they made a comeback in the form of suspense dramas. The past year has seen many outstanding suspense dramas. "The Long Season"…

In the year 2024, the espionage genre is experiencing a long-awaited resurgence. On one hand, the innovative spy drama "War of Faith" has just concluded with great success, while on the other hand, "In the Name of the Brother" is quickly taking the spotlight. Looking at the lineup, the director is Zhang Li, and the screenwriter is Wang Xiaoqiang, both of whom have produced excellent works in the past, with Wang Xiaoqiang excelling in the espionage genre. As for the cast, Yang Mi partners with Qin Hao, possessing both beauty and acting skills. "In the Name of the Brother" is set in the puppet state of Manchukuo before the victory of the War of Resistance Against Japan, telling the story of Communist intelligence officer Song Zhuowen (played by Qin Hao) being mistaken as a savior by Guan Xue (played by Yang Mi), who is the head of the Special Service Department of the Harbin Police Bureau. Song Zhuowen, who is actually his brother Song Zhuowu, then infiltrates the enemy's ranks with a calculated plan. Thus, a grand drama of twin spies unfolds. Familiar with Espionage Dramas "In the Name of the Brother" exudes a sense of urgency from the very…

Let’s talk about Han purple and Han blue, distant relatives of Han Solo. Or perhaps not. ◑.◑ What are they then? As you may have guessed, these are artificial pigments, synthetic colors, created by the Chinese over 2,500 years ago. They were widely used in ancient artworks - such as wall paintings, for decorating ceramics, metalware, jewelry, clothes, and even the famed Terracotta warriors are painted blue... or purple. Han purple and Han blue are actually misnamed, as both colors have been found well before the Han dynasty in China, perhaps as early as the Western Zhou dynasty (1045-771 BCE). Therefore, they are often called Chinese purple and Chinese blue instead. Another misnomer is that Han purple, in its pure form, is actually a dark blue, so perhaps Han indigo would be more accurate. But let's go back in time to ancient China. Colors were obtained through what people could find in nature. Fun fact: Pigments are made from inorganic materials such as powdered minerals, and are far more durable than dyes. Dyes, on the other hand, are organic compounds traditionally made from plants or animals and are shorter-lasting. So here they were, using dyes and the same old pigments -…

In the fascinating world of television, period dramas have always held a special allure, captivating audiences with their rich tapestries of history, culture, and personal stories set against the backdrop of significant historical epochs. As we look ahead, the upcoming roster of period cdramas promises an enthralling blend of intrigue, romance, and historical authenticity. These upcoming ten period cdramas not only promise to be a visual feast but also aim to immerse viewers in the depths of human experience across various landscapes of time. According to incomplete statistics, currently there are more than ten period dramas awaiting broadcast, with key series including "Romance in the Alley," "Liu Zi Mei," "Zu Ji," and "Created in China."   The Swimsuit Saga Director: Zhang Silin Starring: Qiao Shan, Yang Zishan, Liu Jia, Tang Jianjun, Yu Yang Recently, the period drama "The Swimsuit Saga" was scheduled to premiere. The series, led by Qiao Shan and Yang Zishan, with a special appearance by Yu Yang, mainly tells the story of the people of Xingcheng Swimwear seizing the opportunity of reform to successfully start their own business, with Peng Jinxi (played by Qiao Shan) and Luo Hong (played by Yang Zishan) as representatives. Plot Summary of…

In the annals of the internet's memory, Hanfu made its debut in the public eye in 2003 when a power worker strolled through the streets of Zhengzhou clad in Hanfu, sparking widespread intrigue. Back then, donning Hanfu in public would undoubtedly invite curious gazes and discussions from passersby. However, times have indeed changed. Nowadays, it is no longer a novelty to encounter boys and girls in Hanfu on the streets, let alone in the online, where exquisite Hanfu photoshoots, vintage makeup tutorials, and hairstyling guides are readily available. There is also a plethora of gatherings for Hanfu enthusiasts. While participation is easily accessible, delving deeper into the subject may surprise many, as Hanfu is far more than just a visually appealing garment. In this article, author Acheng (TOPYS) will share his perspective about hanfu. The Hanfu community has long been subjected to ridicule and prejudice, with many still holding the belief that most Hanfu enthusiasts are merely superficial admirers of beautiful clothing. Throughout history, Hanfu has been intricately intertwined with the development of Chinese culture, spanning numerous historical epochs and reflecting distinct characteristics alongside the evolution of societal ideologies and aesthetic standards. Dongjin Shangyu has been immersed in the world…

Vocab Deity Parade - 游神 (yóu shén) - the name used to call this parade where deity are invited though offerings to parade around town and village as a sign of fresh year, luck, prosperity, and abundant harvest.  Divine General - 神将 (shén jiàng) - directly refers to generals, warriors, and those who have certain authority or accomplishment for humanity. They are subordinates of higher generals or gods and play an important role in the protection of different towns. They are also considered gods themselves. For this article, mentioning of gods, deities, or divine figures refers to these generals and figures who parade around town, not gods like the Bodhisattva, Queen Mother of the West (王母娘娘, wángmǔ niángniáng), or Jade Emperor (玉皇大帝, yùhuáng dàdì). Moon blocks - 筊杯 / 圣杯 / 圣筊 (jiǎo bēi / shèng bēi / shèng jiǎo) - wooden tools from China used for seeking divine guidance with offerings provided to said deity. They are in pairs and can be made from different wood materials and take on different shapes.  "Smiling" Cup - 笑杯, 正 (xiào bēi, zhèng) - two flat side of the moon block, meaning your question is unclear and you can repeat yourself using…

"Eternal Brotherhood" is a costume drama directed by Zhang Meng and Wei Lizhou, written by Tian Liangliang, starring Yang Xuwen and Liu Yuning, with special guest appearance by Zhang Ming'en. It premiered on February 27, 2024. Adapted from the original novel "Zi Chuan" by Lao Zhu, the story unfolds on the Xi Chuan Continent, where various family forces are in constant turmoil. The plot follows the efforts of Zichuan Xiu, along with his sworn brothers Di Lin and Siyi Lin, to protect the Xiuchuan family from internal and external threats, restore order, and defend against external enemies. Through the baptism of blood and fire, and the clash of blades, the three brothers evolve into heroes with ambitions to change the world. Amid the chaos on the Xi Chuan Continent, tensions rise between the Zichuan and Sairong tribes. In this turbulent era, war looms on the horizon, where those around you could be either trusted allies or long-planted moles. Friends may wear smiles to your face but wield knives behind your back. Those entangled in power play a dangerous game, akin to walking on the edge of a blade, with each step filled with peril. Zichuan Xiu (portrayed by Yang Xuwen),…

The China Spring Festival Gala of 2024 received high praise, with the program "Nian Jin" providing a delightful surprise to the audience. Liu Tao, Liu Shishi, Li Qin, and Guan Xiaotong appeared on stage in costumes from different dynasties such as Han, Tang, Song, and Ming, leading a group of Hanfu girls to present a visual feast of traditional culture to the audience. Hanfu has finally gained recognition once again, being showcased to people nationwide and even worldwide. Behind this success lies a movement called the "Hanfu Revival" that has been unfolding over the past twenty years. Countless enthusiasts of Hanfu, undaunted by criticism, have cherished traditional values, all in the pursuit of reviving the attire of the Han people that was once stripped away. From facing scrutiny to now being ubiquitous, how has the revival of Hanfu come to this point, and what drives their unwavering dedication? In 2003, a group of awakeners and practitioners of Han culture began to gather on a forum called Han Wang, where one of the main topics of discussion was Hanfu. Despite being relegated to the sidelines of history during the late Ming and early Qing dynasties, Hanfu, as a traditional attire of…

From the Spring and Autumn period to the prosperous Tang Dynasty, from idealism to realism, the first two seasons of the epic documentary "China" made a strong entry into the realm of high-scoring documentaries, receiving unanimous acclaim. Unexpectedly, the "China Season 3" took a different approach, starting from mythology and embarking on a reverse journey through time: from early myths to ancient history, from primitive society to agrarian civilization, the establishment of the state, and the development of rites, allowing us to glimpse the civilization codes shimmering in the galaxy of history. What is even more noteworthy, the "China Season 3" incorporated a large number of the latest archaeological discoveries and invited 183 outstanding young artists to create 443 Chinese paintings. Through special effects, the paintings came to life, combining storytelling and aesthetics to provide us with an artistic feast.   Unique realm of romantic imagination Every civilization has its own creator god. Just like a prelude to life, in Chinese mythology, Pangu is the god who broke the chaos, bringing light to the world, creating the first mountain and the first river. Nuwa, with a human head and a snake body, represents the gods of eternal life and reproduction,…

The program "Nian Jin" at the 2024 CCTV Spring Festival Gala showcased the beauty of traditional Hanfu from various dynasties to billions of viewers. Among them, the exquisite patterns connected the vision of a prosperous new year and allowed more people to understand the essence of traditional Hanfu, which is supported by classical patterns and traditional fabrics. From the grandeur of the Warring States period to the elegance of the Ming Dynasty, this stage performance passed down the beauty of China's thousands of years. Liu Tao, Liu Shishi, Li Qin, and Guan Xiaotong led the singing of "Nian Jin", and they represented the splendor of the Han, Tang, Song, and Ming dynasties, HANTIME will share the highlights in detail with us. Liu Tao's outfit consists of a Zhiju robe and a Gui Yi, with yellow as the main color, representing a solemn and grand emotional meaning. The pattern combines the patterns of the Chinese flowering crabapple and clouds, with a cape made of swallowtail gauze. The hem of the robe is made of Changle Mingguang brocade, a Han dynasty brocade discovered in Loulan, Xinjiang. The pattern mainly features animal motifs, with the words "Changle Mingguang" symbolizing auspiciousness, intricately woven with…

If you watched the 2024 Henan TV Spring Festival Gala, you would definitely be impressed by Yang Mi's portrayal, as she single-handedly interpreted the classic costumes of the Tang, Song and Ming dynasties in Hanfu. The beauty of Chinese Hanfu permeates Chinese civilization, with clothing being of utmost importance in daily life. Whether it's the elegance of the Han dynasty, the gracefulness of the Wei, Jin, Southern and Northern dynasties, the grandeur of the Tang dynasty, the refinement of the Song dynasty, or the solemnity of the Ming dynasty, the styles of the Tang, Song and Ming dynasties are undoubtedly the epitome of classic Hanfu. The high bun and chest-length dress of the Tang dynasty were essential for women, with color combinations ranging from harmonious to boldly contrasting, reflecting the flourishing exchange and collision of exotic cultures during that period, presenting an atmosphere of openness. The Hanfu Shidai (HAN TIME) provided detailed interpretations of these three styles, allowing us to delve into their essence. Hairpins and hair ornaments adorned with floral patterns became fashionable, with Dunhuang being a treasure trove of floral patterns that led the trend of the Tang dynasty. The popular hair combs of the mid-Tang dynasty softened…

Every year, the most explosive, buzzworthy, and actor-elevating genre undoubtedly belongs to costume dramas. This is why every year, costume dramas flood the market, attracting both investors and actors. In the upcoming lineup of Chinese video platforms in 2024, costume dramas have earned an incredibly important position. In this article, the highlights of the costume dramas that will soon be aired on Tencent Video and Youku Video.   1-Costume dramas on Tencent Video Among the upcoming lineup of costume dramas on Tencent Video, they have the fewest number compared to the other four major Chinese video platforms, with only 14 productions. However, there are still plenty of potential blockbusters among them, most of which are sure to become highly-discussed hot dramas.   The Legend of Shen Li Leading the pack is the director Deng Ke's "The Legend of Shen Li," starring Zhao Liying and Lin Gengxin. It is adapted from Jiu Lu Fei Xiang's novel "Ben Wang Zai Ci." The reunion of these two actors reminds people of "Princess Agents," as the second season of that show is still eagerly anticipated. Audiences can only temporarily relieve their longing through "The Legend of Shen Li." Zhao Liying's talent is beyond doubt,…

In the pursuit of innovation in the Chinese drama market, traditional costume dramas are undergoing a revolution. With the rise of popular elements such as fantasy and idol, true costume dramas are becoming increasingly difficult to find. However, "Fighting for Love" brings a breath of fresh air to the audience with its simple style and authenticity. The drama abandons the glamorous special effects, vibrant costumes, and excessive filters, presenting the essence of costume dramas. Directed by Tian Shaobo, "Fighting for Love" stars Zhang Tianai, Zhang Haowei, Wang Ruichang, and others, and premiered on January 31, 2024. A Mai, the daughter of the Duke Jing of Nanxia, is killed by Chen Qi, her childhood friend. After several years, A Mai, who has grown into a young woman, disguises herself as a man and roams the martial world in order to seek revenge on Chen Qi. By a twist of fate, A Mai saves the son of the Crown Princess, Shang Yizhi, and subsequently helps him escape from danger multiple times. Their destinies become intertwined. As war breaks out, A Mai sheds her feminine appearance and joins the army as an infantry soldier. With her exceptional military talents, she achieves remarkable feats and…

Have you mesmerized by the makeup of "A Journey to Love"? The beauty level is comparable to the grand award of Huadian in ancient costume dramas. BAZAAR brings you a look at the use of the Huadian in recent Chinese TV dramas and its history. As the chosen one of ancient times, Liu Shi Shi made a graceful appearance with a transcendent snow dance, dressed in a flowing red gown, with a graceful figure. The red of the Huadian between her eyebrows and the white of the snow complemented each other, making her as beautiful as a painting. After entering the palace, she abandoned her fierce killer aura and her presence became gentle and hazy. Her usual elegant attire, paired with the Huadian, exuded a cool and charming aura. The costume and makeup of other characters are also praiseworthy. He Lan Dou, who plays Princess Yang Ying, went from being overlooked to becoming the empress, and the appearance of the Huadian perfectly corresponded to her growth trajectory. Chen Xiao Yun's Huadian makeup in the role of noble consort Chu emanated a pure and captivating charm, making her beauty irresistible. Chen Du Ling, who caused a stir with her appearance, portrayed…

The Mamian skirt pattern, as a traditional cultural element, is leading a new trend in the fashion world today. Its unique design and patterns showcase the elegance and temperament of ancient Han women, while also incorporating elements of modern fashion, making it a highly regarded focus in the fashion industry. Let us explore the structure, content, and trends of the Mamian skirt pattern in the fashion world. 01 Diversified Material Innovations In modern fashion, designers have applied the Mamian skirt pattern to various materials such as silk, cotton, chiffon, and blended fabrics. The Mamian skirt exhibits diverse styles and characteristics through material innovation, combining vintage flavor with a contemporary sense of fashion. This diversified material innovation injects new vitality and fashion trends into the Mamian skirt pattern.   02 Innovative Styles and Diversification Modern designers have retained the traditional Mamian skirt's basic structure and introduced many innovations. For example, the Mamian skirt can be paired with other garments such as t-shirts, shirts, or jackets to create a unique fashion style. Additionally, the Mamian skirt pattern can be incorporated into accessories such as handbags, shoes, or jewelry, adding unique highlights to the overall look.   03 Perfect Fusion of Tradition and…