From Handicraft To Intangible Culture Heritage

It is not only fortunate but embarrassing for the West Lake Silk Umbrella which has become the intangible heritage from just common handicraft. How the Umbrella declined gradually from a popular handicraft to the traditional handicraft that could not be inherited without preservation is our major concern.. Moreover, what are the problems in the process of inheritance and preservation of the Umbrella workmanship and what should be done to solve these problems are the main issues which will be discussed in this study? The historical development of the West Lake Silk Umbrella, including its creation, peak of production and declination is clarified through literature study, direct observation and participant observation methods. It is found that there were various factors which affected the development of the Umbrella, such as the government and social organizations, the company and its professionals. But the most important one is the market. Under the situations of shrinking market, besides productive protection, the inheritors and museums must be involved in the preservation of the Umbrella workmanship. By investigating the history and preservation of the West Lake Silk Umbrella, this study can be also helpful for the preservation of other intangible heritages.