Seeking the Root of Folk Art: Analysis and Reflection on the Cultural Characteristics of Tengchong Jadeite Jade Carving

Tengchong jadeite jade carving is a manifestation of the wisdom and aesthetics of the ancients through the process of materialization on the basis of respecting the physical properties of natural jadeite raw materials. It integrates the life experience and humanistic spirit of Tengchong's ancestors, and is rich in the cultural and technological values of the times. It plays an important role in the development of Chinese jade carving. Taking Tengchong jadeite jade carving as the research object, combined with relevant field investigations, this study attempts to deeply explore the cultural features of creation of Tengchong jadeite jade carving from five aspects: "people-oriented and practical as the center, reviewing the situation, beautiful materials and exquisite workmanship, the unity of decoration and simplicity, the image expression of cultural symbols and metaphors, and the harmonious integration of imitation and creation". This reveals the creation tradition of Tengchong jade carving. It is expected to provide a meaningful perspective for the research on the creation practice, inheritance and development of folk jade carving in the current era.