A Brief Analysis of the Craftsmanship and Dressing Characteristics of the Derung Traditional Costumes

Abstract

Background and Aim: The Derung people, recognized as the smallest ethnic minority within the 25 aboriginal ethnic groups in Yunnan Province, are distinct for their traditional costumes, religious beliefs, cultural customs, and aesthetic characteristics. Transitioning directly from a primitive society to a socialist society with the establishment of New China, the Derung encountered Han culture. A notable aspect of their culture is the absence of a written language, relying instead on oral transmission for cultural inheritance. This has contributed to the gradual disappearance of Derung traditional clothing culture. On December 27, 2022, the skill of making Derung blankets was acknowledged as part of the fifth batch of provincial intangible cultural heritage representative projects in Yunnan Province. This article delves into the exploration of Derung traditional costumes, focusing particularly on the Derung blanket, to analyze its production, color, and shape structure, thereby understanding the evolution of Derung clothing technology, as well as the artistic and cultural significance of its structure and wearing form.

Materials and Methods: Employing a literature review method, this study gathers graphic and textual materials pertinent to the Derung blanket, achieving a preliminary understanding of the origin and development status of Derung traditional clothing. Additionally, it utilizes empirical research methods to further investigate the Derung blanket, examining its unique wearing method, shape, and color features, which highlight its distinctiveness, deep cultural connotation, and the unique aesthetic orientation of the Derung people from primitive society to the present.

Results: The research finds that the materials used in Derung blanket production are simple, with the colors being chosen by the women, rendering each blanket unique. The structure and wearing form of the Derung blanket align with the characteristics of one-piece, unstructured clothing, preserving the legacy of the original "one-piece style" structure. This exploration and analysis provide theoretical support for further studies on the inheritance and development of Derung traditional clothing, suggesting the potential to leverage modern clothing development trends and concepts, innovations in design methods, and advancements in process technology and materials for the continuous development of the Derung people.

Conclusion: This comprehensive investigation into the Derung blanket not only offers a foundational understanding of Derung traditional clothing's current state and origins but also underscores the importance of cultural preservation and innovation. By integrating modern trends and technologies with traditional practices, there's a promising pathway towards revitalizing the traditional clothing culture of the Derung people, ensuring its survival and relevance in contemporary society.