Tibetan cooperative keeps centuries-old weaving tradition alive
SHANNAN, Tibet — More than a dozen men and women sit at wooden looms, sliding shuttles through rows of wool yarn before pulling each thread tight. They repeat it again and again as they weave Pulu, the traditional woolen fabric that has clothed people on the Tibetan plateau for centuries. They work at the Ethnic Huaji Handwoven Cooperative in Shannan, where artisans are trying to preserve one of…
In Shannan, Tibet, more than a dozen skilled artisans toil at wooden looms, meticulously weaving Pulu, an age-old woolen fabric integral to Tibetan culture. This traditional craft, which has sustained generations on the Tibetan plateau, is being kept alive by the Ethnic Huaji Handwoven Cooperative. Established in 2008 by Tibetan artisan Pasang, the cooperative aims to preserve Tibet's oldest weaving tradition while generating employment opportunities for local residents, including those with disabilities.
Specializing in Zeter, a finer variety of Pulu crafted from the softest wool sourced from the sheep's necks and backs, the cooperative focuses on creating a product lighter, softer, and more delicate than its ordinary counterpart. Historically, Zeter was believed to be presented as a tribute to the Chinese imperial court during the Ming dynasty, owing to its superior quality.
Pasang's initiative seeks not only to safeguard this revered craft but also to equip younger Tibetans with the skills to continue this revered tradition.
Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
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