chinatopix.com
Cybelle Go
November 28, 2015
Tsethang serge served as a symbol of status in Tibet since the 14th century. The fabric was exclusively worn by Lords and high-ranking monks. (Photo : Getty Images)
Tsethang serge, considered one of the best traditional fabrics in Tibet, is making a comeback after it disappeared from the market decades ago, according to China Daily.
Tsethang serge has served as a symbol of status in Tibet since the 14th century. The fabric was exclusively worn by Lords and high-ranking monks.
The cashmere-like fabric was discovered at the Tsethang temple in 1350.
Tsethang serge is more thin and fine with a smoother texture as compared to other fabrics, but the weaving process is tedious and time-consuming.
It can take forty days to complete the weaving process of one outfit. Raw materials can be derived from the back and neck area of a Tibetan sheep or goat.
Unfortunately, in 1970s, the art of weaving fabrics became outdated and the tradition was eventually forgotten.
In 2007, a local Tibetan named Pasang talked with the local elders while holding a traditional painting class in Nedong County.
“He told me how much he wished the Tsethang serge can be preserved,” said Pasang, who became interested in traditional craft and spent two years attempting to look for weavers who can create the special fabric.
Most of the weavers were dead and the remaining weavers have not created any fabric for the past two decades, according to Xinhua.
Pasang shelled out all his savings to invest in a weaving workshop for the Tsethang serge. The final product of the weaving process was so good that soon word of mouth spread about a fabric that can be ‘cool in summer’ and ‘warm in winter’.
Traditional Tibetan clothing made out of Tsethang serge can cost up to USD $2,033 (RMB 13,000) and a simple scarf can cost up to USD $203 (RMB 1300).
The workshop currently employs 72 weavers and 60 weavers have decided to work within their home. It aims to earn USD $328,00 (RMB 2.1 million) in sales and another USD $65000 (RMB 4200) in profit.
Pasang expressed his interest to expand through training more people in the art of weaving the Tsethang serge.
