Tibetan Kazhi Handicraft Art

Location: Jiangzi County (江孜县), Shigatse Region (日喀则地区), Tibet

Jiangzi County (江孜县) in the Shigatse Region (日喀则地区) of Tibet is renowned as the homeland of the Tibetan carpet, known locally as Kazhi (卡垫). These carpets are considered one of the world’s three major carpets, alongside Turkish carpets and Persian carpets.

As early as the 11th century, in the middle reaches of the Yanchu River (年楚河) — in what is now Bailang County (白朗县) — a type of handwoven product called Wangdanzhongsi (旺丹仲丝) (the precursor of Kazhi) emerged. This region has long been a traditional production area for Tibetan carpets, and the weaving techniques here have evolved over time, forming a series of distinctive patterns. By the time of the Republic of China period, British merchants had established small factories and craft schools in Jiangzi County (江孜县), exporting these carpets to Europe.

Kazhi carpets (江孜卡垫) reflect the history of Tibetan weaving craftsmanship over more than a thousand years. Their unique weaving techniques, vibrant colors, and soft textures are a testament to the high artistic value of the craft, and it is crucial to preserve and inherit these cultural skills.

Key Information

• Heritage Name: Tibetan Kazhi Handicraft Art (藏族卡垫织造技艺)

• Heritage Level: National Intangible Cultural Heritage (国家级非物质文化遗产)

• Approval Year: 2006

• Origin Time: 11th Century (公元11世纪)

• Core Craft: Rod-based knotting technique (穿杆结扣法)

• Main Production Area: Jiangzi County (江孜县), Shigatse Region (日喀则地区)

• Inheritor Unit: Jiangzi Carpet Factory (江孜地毯厂)

Overview of Kazhi Weaving Craft

Historical Origins

The craft of Kazhi carpet weaving first appeared in the 11th century in the Yanchu River region (年楚河中游地区), today part of Bailang County (白朗县). The weaving techniques were introduced to Tibet by Princess Wencheng (文成公主) during the Tang Dynasty (唐朝), laying the foundation for this artistic tradition. In the 15th century, families from Jiangzi County (江孜县) improved the rod-based knotting technique, which became a signature feature of Tibetan carpets. By the time of the Republic of China, British merchants had established small factories and schools in Jiangzi, exporting Kazhi carpets to Europe.

Since the 17th century, Jiangzi County (江孜县) has been the core production area for these carpets, and the town became known as the “Home of Kazhi” (卡垫之乡).

Crafting Features

Kazhi carpets are known for their stunning visual appeal and intricate craftsmanship. They are made using a combination of techniques including pattern design, spinning and dyeing of wool, and manual knotting. The weaving process includes the following core steps:

1. Spinning and Dyeing: Wool is spun into thread and dyed using plant-based dyes, producing over 60 natural colors.

2. Weaving: The carpets are woven by hand using a rod-based knotting technique. This knotting method is key to the craftsmanship of Kazhi carpets, creating rich textures and vibrant patterns.

3. Finishing: The carpets are meticulously trimmed by hand for 5 days to achieve a three-dimensional effect, making them stand out in terms of both design and quality.

Common traditional motifs include dragon and phoenix patterns, the Eight Auspicious Symbols (吉祥八宝), and other symbolic Tibetan designs. These motifs represent Tibet’s rich spiritual culture and are passed down from generation to generation.

Crafting Standards

Each Kazhi carpet is meticulously crafted to meet international standards, with a density of 90 knots per square foot, ensuring both durability and aesthetic appeal. The rich, vibrant colors and soft texture make these carpets highly sought after worldwide.

Inheritance and Protection

After being included in the National Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2006, various measures have been put in place to protect and sustain the craftsmanship of Kazhi carpets. These efforts include:

1. Establishing Heritage Workshops: By the end of 2022, 151 heritage workshops had been established across Tibet, benefiting over 6,000 local workers.

2. Collaboration between Schools and Enterprises: Zhuofanlin Company (卓番林公司) in Tibet has organized nearly 100 training sessions, training almost 1,000 artisans in the craft.

3. Productive Protection: The Jiangzi Carpet Factory (江孜地毯厂), recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage Demonstration Base in 2011, completed a modernization project in 2017, allowing for more efficient production while preserving the traditional craft.

Modern Development

Product Innovation

To adapt to contemporary demand, Kazhi carpets have been transformed into over 300 derivative products, blending traditional motifs with modern home design. These innovative products, such as carpet cushions, wall hangings, and decorative tapestries, help expand the cultural influence of the craft.

Sales Channels

The “Intangible Cultural Heritage + Internet” model has significantly boosted sales, with online and offline sales reaching over 2.8 million RMB in 2022. This model allows Kazhi carpets to be sold not only in Tibet but also internationally, particularly in Europe, India, Nepal, and Bhutan.

Skill Improvement

While the core weaving techniques are preserved, the introduction of mechanical spinning devices has improved efficiency and production capacity, ensuring that the craft can continue to thrive in the modern market. Additionally, the home-based employment model has provided artisans with the flexibility to work from home, earning up to 100,000 RMB annually.

Cultural Influence

As one of the three major carpets of the world (along with Turkish carpets and Persian carpets), Kazhi carpets have been recognized globally for their artistic and cultural significance. The Kazhi carpets were featured in the 2024 Qinghai Tibetan Cultural Museum (青海藏文化博物院) exhibition, highlighting their continued artistic vitality.

In addition to international exhibitions, Jiangzi carpets have been protected by local legislation, such as the Shigatse City Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection Regulations (日喀则市非物质文化遗产条例), which help ensure the intergenerational transmission of this important craft.