In the past, Bao Vinh Ancient Town was a bustling trading port, a hub for merchants both local and international. During the Nguyen Dynasty, paper fans emerged in Bao Vinh and quickly became an integral part of daily life in Hue.
Hue fans embody a refined, gentle beauty, mirroring the people and land of this ancient capital. They are not merely tools for warding off the summer heat but also symbols of Hue’s elegance and grace. Today, despite the vicissitudes of history, the craft of paper fan making in Bao Vinh Ancient Town is preserved as a precious heritage.
Intricate Stages Elevate a Craft Product
To produce an exquisite paper fan, Bao Vinh artisans must meticulously follow several labor-intensive steps:
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Selecting Materials: Bamboo and paper are the primary materials for crafting fans. Bamboo is carefully chosen and soaked in water for months to prevent pests, then polished and split into fine, evenly-sized slats. Traditionally, dó paper or handmade paper was used, but nowadays, more durable and aesthetically pleasing paper varieties are preferred.
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Making Fan Slats: The treated bamboo slats are cut and securely fastened at one end with nails. The artisan uses deft techniques to create uniformly sized slats without unevenness or rough edges.
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Attaching the Fan Cover: This is the most crucial stage. The fan cover (made of paper or fabric) is skillfully affixed to each slat, ensuring even and symmetrical spreading. The artisan’s expertise determines the fan’s beauty, reflected in smooth, wrinkle-free attachments.
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Decorating and Finishing: Artisans use brushes to paint intricate patterns on the fan's surface. Scenic depictions of Hue, calligraphy, or floral motifs are rendered with finesse, enhancing the product’s artistic value.
Bao Vinh Paper Fans – A Fusion of Art and Hue Culture
Bao Vinh paper fans are not merely practical items but symbolic products of the ancient capital. The designs often embody Hue’s cultural essence, featuring images of the Perfume River, Ngu Mountain, and poetic calligraphic verses. These fans were indispensable in royal court dances, festivals, and the cultural activities of Hue’s people in the past.
Today, Bao Vinh paper fans have transcended their utilitarian value to become unique souvenirs for tourists visiting Hue. Each fan is a miniature work of art, reflecting the skill, precision, and passion of the artisans.
New Directions for Fan Making in Bao Vinh Ancient Town
Despite competition from electric fans and modern air conditioners, Bao Vinh’s artisans remain steadfast in preserving their traditional craft. To adapt to the times, they have innovated by creating various new fan types, such as painted fans, decorative fans, and calligraphy fans, catering to market demand.
The fusion of tradition and modernity has helped Bao Vinh fans gradually assert their position in the market. Some products are even exported, bringing the cultural beauty of Hue to international friends.
Amid the rapid pace of modern life, the craft of paper fan making in Bao Vinh Ancient Town endures as a witness to Hue’s history and culture. Each fan tells a story of skillful hands, perseverance, and love for the craft. Visiting Bao Vinh, hearing the soft sound of bamboo slats brushing against each other, and admiring the colorful paper fans, you will feel a part of Hue’s soul, preserved through time.
Come to Bao Vinh, take home a paper fan, and carry with you a piece of Hue’s dreamy nostalgia.