Miao Silver Ornament Forging

The Miao silver-forging tradition is ancient; silver ornaments are symbols of wealth, status and beauty in Miao culture, and serve as an 'unwritten history book' recording Miao beliefs and history—the craft passes within families, with every step from smelting to chasing, wire-drawing and soldering done entirely by hand.

Smiths melt silver into wires and hammered sheets, then work through dozens of chasing, piercing and soldering steps to create headdresses, neck rings, bracelets and chest plaques; a full festival set of silver ornaments can weigh over five kilograms.

Inscribed in 2006 on the first national ICH list, the craft represents the highest integration of Miao traditional art and craftsmanship, holding exceptional value for ethnic culture and the applied arts.

Miao silversmithing is demonstrated in Miao villages around Guiyang and at Colorful Guizhou cultural venues; the Guizhou Provincial Museum holds an extensive collection of Miao silver pieces.