Velvet Flower Heritage - Tang Dynasty Silk Craft | SilkPathCraftsmen

Keeper of the Velvet Flower

Meet the artisan who holds the threads of history. In a world of fleeting trends, Master Ren jian has dedicated a lifetime to preserving one of China's most delicate and enchanting arts—the Ronghua velvet flower. Discover the story, the skill, and the passion behind every handcrafted piece in our collection

Ren Jian

ICH Inheritor of Hangzhou Velvet Flower Craft

A Guardian of Velvet Flower Heritage

As a renowned folk artisan and designated Intangible Cultural Heritage Inheritor of Gongshu District, Hangzhou, Ren Jian is dedicated to preserving the centuries-old velvet flower craft. Mastering over 10 core handcrafting processes using mulberry silk and copper wire, he creates exquisitely designed, auspicious floral artworks steeped in traditional Chinese cultural significance.

Bridging Tradition and Innovation

Ren balances rigorous preservation of classic techniques and patterns with bold innovation for modern aesthetics. He revitalizes this ancient art by integrating velvet flower craftsmanship into contemporary design, public art installations, and cultural creative products, ensuring its living heritage in modern life.

Champion of Cultural Transmission

Serving as a New Era Ambassador for ICH Promotion, Ren actively educates the next generation through apprenticeships, school programs, workshops and lectures. His efforts expand the inheritance team and make this traditional craft accessible to broader audiences.

Internationally Acclaimed Artistry

Ren's award-winning works have been featured in major domestic and international ICH exhibitions, significantly elevating the visibility and influence of Hangzhou velvet flower craft on a global stage.

The Power of Inheritance

10+

Core Crafting Processes

30+

Years of Practice

50+

Exhibitions Worldwide

1000+

Students Trained

Legacy of a Master

Signature Masterpieces

Crane Feather Hair Clip

2017

Crane Feather Hair Clip

2017

Centered on lifelike red-crowned crane white feathers crafted from fluffy velvet silk, with a golden metal base and agate red long pendant adorned with pearl gold chains. The red and white color contrast exudes strong oriental charm, integrating the auspicious crane imagery into hair accessories with elegant grace.

Pine and Crane Longevity Ornament

2019

Pine and Crane Longevity Ornament

2019

Featuring pine trees and cranes shaped from velvet silk, with layered dark green pine needles showing vigorous texture and white cranes with red crowns standing on ancient wood covered with mossy velvet branches. An auspicious mood of eternal youth and longevity, with delicate velvet craftsmanship restoring natural vitality.

Joyful Velvet Hair Set

2021

Joyful Velvet Hair Set

2021

Including a velvet flower hairpin and earrings, the hairpin features a warm brown wooden rod with pink-orange velvet iris flowers showing soft and three-dimensional petals; the matching earrings are pendant-style with the same color velvet flowers, paired with golden chains and auspicious plaques. The pink and gold color scheme condenses spring blossoms and auspicious meanings into the jewelry.

Hall of Honor

Recognition of Excellence

Cultural Ambassador for the New Era

2010

Championing traditional crafts in contemporary society

Gold Medal Intangible Cultural Heritage Inheritor

Gold Medal ICH Inheritor

2013

Excellence in preserving Hangzhou velvet flower craft

Certificate of Exhibition - 27th ICOM General Conference

ICOM Expo Exhibition

2015

International recognition for velvet flower artistry

Discover More

Explore the Timeless Art of Velvet Flowers

Journey Through Centuries of Silk and Tradition

Ronghua traces its origins to the Tang Dynasty imperial court, refined over a thousand years. Crafted from mulberry silk and copper wire through meticulous handwork, these delicate blooms never fade. From royal headdresses to cherished adornments, each piece carries timeless symbolism and the artisan's devotion.

Discover how velvet flowers evolved from palace to modern life, explore regional styles, and see how contemporary masters honor tradition while reimagining this ancient craft. Experience the enduring beauty where silk and time intertwine.

Discover the Velvet Flower Legacy