Ancient handicraft bucks gender norms

Men carry on intricate skills once passed down from mothers to daughters, turning works into profits, Yang Feiyue reports.

For over 3,000 years, the intricate art of Li brocade — spinning, dyeing, weaving and embroidering — has been a hallmark of family tradition in Hainan province, passed down primarily from mothers to daughters.

This unique craft has served as a living testament to the deep familial bonds that have kept it alive through the generations.

Yet, the legacy of Li brocade is now being upheld by an increasing number of young practitioners, including male descendants of renowned artisan families.