The History of Chinese Papercutting: A Tradition in Every Cut

Chinese papercutting (剪纸, jiǎnzhǐ) is one of China’s most ancient and cherished folk arts, dating back over 1,500 years. What started as a delicate craft has evolved into a symbol of culture, creativity, and storytelling, passed down through generations.

The earliest known papercutting artifacts date back to the Northern Dynasties period (386–581 CE). Five floral-patterned papercuts were discovered near Flaming Mountain in Turpan, Xinjiang, offering the earliest physical evidence of the art form’s existence.

Northern Dynasties Paired Floral Papercutting (Left: Unearthed Original Fragment, Right: Restoration)

But references to decorative papercutting may go even further back. The famous Ballad of Mulan, written during the Northern and Southern Dynasties period, contains the line:

"Facing the mirror, she applies floral makeup."

Some scholars believe this could hint at an early cultural practice of using delicate papercut designs as stencils for facial decoration, linking papercutting to beauty and daily life.

By the Tang (618–907 CE) and Song (960–1279 CE) dynasties, papercutting had become a widespread folk tradition. It was used to decorate homes, temples, and festive gatherings, symbolizing good fortune, prosperity, and happiness. The art form was especially popular during Lunar New Year, where intricate red paper designs of dragons, fish, and flowers were placed on windows and doors to invite good luck.

Papercutting in the Modern World

Though modern printing and laser cutting have changed how designs are made, traditional papercutting remains a treasured craft. In 2009, UNESCO recognized Chinese papercutting as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Today, papercutting is not just a historical artifact—it’s a living art that continues to evolve. Whether honoring tradition or exploring new creative forms, each papercut carries a piece of history—one careful cut at a time.

✂️ Want to try this timeless art yourself? Explore our tutorials and start creating your own papercut designs today!