Tujia brocade "Xilankapu" originated from ancient practical items. "Xi'lan" refers to bedding, and "kapu" means flowers, so "Xilankapu" literally translates to "Tujia floral bedding." Later, this term also came to describe the handwoven brocade patterns made from silk, cotton, and wool threads using warp and weft intersections. As society evolved, it transformed into an art form blending practicality and aesthetic value.
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On May 20, 2006, the "Xilankapu" weaving technique was officially inscribed on China's first batch of National Intangible Cultural Heritage List.
The creation process involves over 20 steps, including spinning, dyeing, warping, and shuttle weaving. Traditional patterns encompass over 200 designs derived from natural motifs, geometric shapes, and folklore narratives.
As a vital element of Tujia wedding customs, "Xilankapu" was once an essential dowry item for Tujia brides, with its weaving skills serving as a criterion for evaluating a woman's wisdom and diligence. Today, intangible cultural heritage inheritors are revitalizing this ancient craft through innovative loom designs, developing cultural products like handbags and shawls, and integrating it into modern camping culture experiences.
