Chinese Knot is a decorative handicraft that began as a folk art in Tang and Song Dynasties, and became popular in Ming and Qing Dynasties. It is distinctive for its complicated pattern is woven separately from one piece of thread. In Chinese, 'knot' means reunion, peace, marriage, love, acquaintance and so on. Chinese knots are often used to express the above good wishes.

The material of the thread can be the cotton, nylon and so on, and many of them are red. The exquisitely symmetrical knots that come in so many forms are the valuable cultural heritage of China.

The Chinese Knots are named according to their different shapes, usages and origins. The treasure knot, for example, is with the appearance of 'Yuanbao', the Chinese ancient golden ingot. And the button knot, which has the function as the button. Each type of Chinese Knot usually has a beautiful and auspicious name.

In the ancient time, the knots are pulled tightly and sturdily together that can be used for binding or wrapping, which making them very practical. In addition, it is endowed with high decorative value by its complicated structure. Almost all basic Chinese knots are symmetrical, which has set certain technical limitations on the design and creation of new patterns. Traditionally, symmetry pattern suites the aesthetic standards of the Chinese people well. Moreover, the symmetrical designs are the most popular among Chinese people visually.

Chinese people have known how to tie knots using cords ever since they began learned how to attach animal fur to their bodies to keep warm thousands of years ago. As civilization advanced, Chinese people used knots for more than just fastening and wrapping. Knots were also used to record the events, while others had ornamental functions.

Nowadays the Chinese knot has been served as both the fixtures and decoration of palace halls and the daily implements of countryside households since long time ago. Large Chinese knot served as wall hangings have the same decorative value as fine paintings or photographs, and are perfectly suitable for decorating a parlor or study as well as the hall. The Chinese knot, with its classic elegance and ever-changing patterns, is both practical and ornamental, fully reflecting the grace of Chinese culture.

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