Collection 4
A history of traditional Chinese whirlwind binding method, a background study of acupuncture, and an introduction to the art of shadow puppetry.
​In ancient China, bamboo scrolls were used for text recording for an extended period, and despite the later invention of paper, a similar storage method persisted, with the whirlwind binding being a typical example. Evolving from scroll binding, the whirlwind binding, also known as "whirlwind leaves" or "dragon scale binding," emerged as a form of bookbinding in ancient China, notably present by the mid-Tang Dynasty. This binding involved using long paper as the base, with the first page fully affixed to the scroll and subsequent pages adhering in a scale-like manner, serving as an early transitional form from scroll to codex binding. Despite varied scholarly opinions on its structure due to a lack of historical data, the whirlwind binding allowed easy leaf-by-leaf perusal when opened, similar to modern books, and finds contemporary use in subcultures like anime and novel character peripherals, contributing to its cultural continuity.
Acupuncture therapy, originating from the Warring States period and documented in the Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon, has been practiced in China for over two millennia. Described as a unique method of treating diseases, acupuncture involves the insertion of needles at specific points along meridians to promote the normal physiological function of the body. This traditional Chinese medical practice, addressing health maintenance and contributing significantly to the well-being of the population, continues to be trusted and utilized by the masses.
Shadow Puppetry, a traditional form of Chinese entertainment, predating movies and television, utilizes light sources like candles to cast shadows of characters crafted from animal hide or paper, with performances accompanied by local music, once immensely popular but now fading in contemporary entertainment, recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
