Chairs with rattan plaited seats. [Photo/WeChat account: chongchuanonline]

Rattan plaiting techniques enjoy a long history. Legend has it that they originated in the Three Kingdoms (220-280), prospered in the Tang and Song dynasties (618-1279), and culminated in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).

Before the Song Dynasty (960-1279), rattan plaiting mats were used for furniture such as beds, couches, and chairs. As the main production place of traditional Chinese redwood furniture, Nantong has experienced certain development in rattan plaiting techniques and in 2020 Nantong rattan plaiting techniques won municipal recognition.

Close-up of the rattan plaited seat of a chair. [Photo/WeChat account: chongchuanonline]

The pure handmade rattan plaiting techniques employ more than 10 procedures, including punching holes, plaiting vines, and brushing oil.

Unlike the rattan plaited articles in South Jiangsu and Guangdong province, Nantong rattan plaiting usually uses vines with moderate width and the plaited articles usually assume a fine and dense surface as well as varied decorative patterns, making them more practical and beautiful.

Chen Yan, an inheritor of Nantong rattan plaiting techniques, plaits an article with vines. [Photo/WeChat account: chongchuanonline]

Chen Yan is an inheritor of Nantong rattan plaiting techniques and his works have been on display at many major exhibitions. He has also fully explored the ancient craft to integrate it with local furniture, distinguishing Nantong-made furniture from other products.