T263

Dong batik China Early 20th century 46″ x 58″ The Dong people live mostly in eastern Guizhou, western Hunan, and northern Guangxi in China. Due to the remote location, the Dong have preserved a traditional way of life and ancient traditions are plain to see for any traveler lucky enough to travel through the province. Textiles are still vitally important to the people of Guizhou, both culturally and economically. Age old methods of textile production from the growing of hemp to its dyeing with indigo and ultimately the intricate decoration of their clothes. The Dong people rely heavily on oral tradition, and share a rich array of legends and folklore through popular operas performed by local troupes, and their internationally-renowned polyphonic choir has been listed by UNESCO as a world-class intangible cultural heritage since 2009.