🪵 For 38 years, one man has been keeping a cherished tradition alive in the bustling city of Xiamen. Meet Pan Haiyuan, a master craftsman whose wooden molds have been the heart and soul of local delicacies like glutinous rice cakes and mooncakes. 🌕🥮
These aren't just any molds; they're intricate works of art, carved with complex patterns of auspicious animals that hold deep meaning in Chinese culture. 🐲🐟🐰 Each piece is a testament to a craft that's been recognized as an intangible cultural heritage of the city.
But times are changing. As machines take over the market, Pan's handmade molds are being overshadowed. 🏭💔 What once attracted guests from miles away now struggles to support his family. The meticulous art of hand-carving is losing ground to mass production.
Determined to keep his passion alive, Pan is on the lookout for apprentices eager to learn. Yet, finding someone willing to invest time in a skill that's \"too long, too tedious, and not profitable enough\" isn't easy in today's fast-paced world. ⏳😔
Pan's story is a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between tradition and modernity. Will this age-old craft survive the push towards automation? Only time will tell. ⌛
Reference(s):
Wood and tradition: 38 years of a master craftsman's journey
cgtn.com
