Bian embroidery, a traditional art form prevalent in Kaifeng City, Henan Province, is a national intangible cultural heritage.
Also known as "Song embroidery," Bian embroidery is a traditional embroidery art popular in the Kaifeng area of Henan Province. It is named after Bianjing (Kaifeng), the capital of the Northern Song Dynasty, where it originated. During the Northern Song Dynasty, Bianjing's embroidery industry flourished, reaching a high level of skill, hence the praise in the *Dongjing Menghualu* (Record of the Splendor of the Eastern Capital) for its "gold and jade reflecting each other, brocade and embroidery intertwining in splendor." In 1127, during the second year of the Jingkang era of Emperor Qinzong of Song, the Jin army captured Kaifeng, forcing the Song court to move south. Later, Kaifeng suffered further damage from war and floods, leading to a decline in the city's economy and the gradual fall of the embroidery industry. After the founding of the People's Republic of China, generations of Bian embroidery artists worked diligently to excavate and organize Song Dynasty embroidery techniques, drawing on the strengths of other embroidery styles such as Suzhou embroidery and Hunan embroidery. They summarized 36 Bian embroidery stitches, further perfecting and refining the craft. Bian embroidery excels in depicting traditional themes such as flowers, birds, insects, fish, and animals, and is also adept at imitating famous paintings. Its works are lifelike and expressive, with meticulous and precise needlework, exquisite craftsmanship, and elegant, antique colors, making it a rare treasure in the world of embroidery.
On June 7, 2008, Bian embroidery was approved by the State Council of the People's Republic of China and included in the second batch of national intangible cultural heritage lists, item number VII-74.
Zhuxian Town woodblock New Year paintings are one of China's oldest traditional handicrafts. As the originator of Chinese woodblock New Year paintings, they are mainly distributed in Kaifeng, Zhuxian Town, and surrounding areas of Henan Province. Zhuxian Town woodblock New Year paintings are characterized by their full composition, bold and concise lines, simple and exaggerated shapes, and vibrant colors.
On May 20, 2006, Zhuxian Town woodblock New Year paintings were approved by the State Council and included in the first batch of national intangible cultural heritage lists.