T243

Handmade Dong hill tribe wedding quilt panel 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 anyone 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 are still implemented today and draw influence from  intricately decorated fabrics like this vintage wedding quilt. The Dong people rely heavily on oral tradition and share a rich array of legends and folklore through popular operas performed by local troupes. Their internationally-renowned polyphonic choir has been listed by UNESCO as a world-class intangible cultural heritage since 2009. Dong hill couples wed on quilts like this one and then used them as bed covers. China Early 20th century 51″ x 79″