In Xiangshan, a coastal county in Ningbo, east China’s Zhejiang province, an ancient art form is experiencing a revival. Fish rubbing, once a practical method for fishermen to create New Year decorations, has transformed into a celebrated artistic tradition.
Historically, fishermen in Xiangshan lacked the skills in papercutting or calligraphy to craft Spring Festival couplets, which are traditional decorations conveying New Year wishes. Instead, they ingeniously extracted ink from cuttlefish and applied it to dead fish. By pressing red paper onto the inked fish, they ‘printed’ images that served as substitutes for the intricate papercut designs.
Local artist and inheritor of this technique, Lu Shenggui, is at the forefront of preserving and promoting fish rubbing. Modern practitioners have evolved the craft by using propylene dyes and are exploring environmentally friendly vegetable dyes. This allows the texture and intricate details of each fish—from scales to fins—to be captured vividly, producing lifelike impressions that honor both the art and the marine life it represents.
Beyond creating stunning artworks, fish rubbing strengthens the bond between coastal communities and the sea that sustains them. Recognizing the cultural significance, Lu frequently visits local kindergartens to teach the technique to children. These young artists bring fresh creativity to fish prints, ensuring the tradition not only survives but thrives with new generations.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
