For nearly four decades, Pan Haiyuan has been the heart and soul behind the traditional wooden molds essential for creating beloved local delicacies such as glutinous rice cakes and mooncakes in Xiamen City, located in the Chinese mainland's Fujian Province. His expertise in carving intricate patterns of auspicious animals, deeply embedded in Chinese culture, has earned his craftsmanship a place as an intangible cultural heritage of the city.
However, Pan now finds himself at a crossroads. The surge of automated machinery in the market has begun to overshadow his handmade molds, making it increasingly difficult to sustain his livelihood and support his family. What was once a revered tradition attracting guests from afar is now struggling to survive in the face of modern advancements.
Determined to keep this timeless craft alive, Pan has been seeking apprentices to pass on his skills. Yet, attracting young individuals has proven challenging. The learning curve is steep, the process painstakingly slow, and the financial rewards often fall short in today's fast-paced world. Many young people are drawn to more lucrative and less labor-intensive careers, leaving Pan's noble quest to preserve tradition hanging by a thread.
Pan's story is a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between honoring cultural heritage and embracing technological progress. As automation continues to reshape industries, the future of handcrafted wooden molds—and the rich traditions they represent—remains uncertain.
Reference(s):
Wood and tradition: 38 years of a master craftsman's journey
cgtn.com
