TRADITIONAL Chinese cultural elements are well reflected in the design of the torch and medal ribbons for the 31st FISU World University Games being held in Chengdu, Sichuan Province.

Not just a blend of four gradient hues — vibrant red, sunny yellow, serene lake blue, and rich jade green — the Chengdu Universiade torch carries a unique design. It embodies the image of a sun-and-immortal-birds gold ornament, one of China’s esteemed ancient treasures, unearthed in 2001 from the Jinsha Site — the epicenter of the bygone Shu Kingdom.

Zhu Zhangyi, curator of the Jinsha Site Museum, said that the sun and immortal birds had been revered symbols in the ancient Shu culture for thousands of years. “The heavenly birds circling the sun symbolizes the Chinese ancestors’ aspirations to ascend to the sun and welcome the light,” he added.

The ancient art of the over 2,000-year-old Shu brocade will adorn the chests of young athletes. The medals are fastened to ribbons showcasing the craftsmanship of the Shu brocade, a treasured national intangible cultural heritage of China.

“The Shu brocade holds a significant position as one of the world’s earliest brocade fabrics,” said Lai Fei, an associate researcher at the Sichuan provincial museum.

The Shu brocade ribbon boasts an array of patterns, including the “Sun and Immortal Birds,” which represent themes of light, hope and dreams. Shu brocade is not only a representative cultural symbol of Chengdu but also a symbol of cultural exchanges between China and the West.

Shu brocade produced in Chengdu was already one of the main commodities circulated on the ancient Silk Road, said Hu Guangjun. With 53 years of experience in this industry, he stands among the select few who have mastered every intricate step of the weaving technique.

“I feel honored to promote Shu brocade weaving skills to the world, thanks to the universiade,” Hu said, adding that creative transformation has been made in not only Shu brocade’s weaving technique but also its combination with other elements of the universiade.

(Xinhua)