Sanming, a city in Fujian Province on the Chinese mainland, is witnessing a remarkable resurgence of its traditional movable type printing techniques. In Ninghua County, a historic Hakka settlement, approximately 400,000 movable type characters have been meticulously preserved, serving as a testament to a long-standing genealogical printing tradition.
Despite the widespread adoption of modern printing technologies, a dedicated group of craftsmen chose to remain in the trade, keeping the ancient art alive. Their perseverance has paid off, as the traditional printing method was recently designated as a provincial-level intangible cultural heritage in Fujian. This recognition has spurred a renewed interest in the craft.
The revival is not just rooted in heritage; it's also driven by the dynamic online market. Local artisans have leveraged e-commerce platforms to cater to the growing demand for customized printing needs. By merging traditional techniques with modern digital platforms, they are able to offer unique, personalized products that appeal to a global audience.
This blend of old and new has not only preserved a valuable cultural practice but has also injected new vitality into the local economy. As more consumers seek bespoke and culturally rich products, Sanming's movable type printing stands out as a perfect example of how traditional craftsmanship can thrive in the digital age.
Reference(s):
E-commerce injects new vitality to traditional printing technique
cgtn.com
