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Scissors exhibition comes with a sharp edge
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THE Zhang Xiaoquan exhibition at the China Knives, Scissors and Swords Museum is a cut above the rest.
Zhang Xiaoquan is a time-honored brand of scissors made in Hangzhou known for their outstanding quality. Travelers to the city often go out of their way to buy a pair of Zhang Xiaoquan scissors.
The exhibition is divided into three parts. The first section showcases the history of the brand, the second displays the numerous products the company has made over the years, while the exhibit concludes with calligraphy and paintings created by celebrities who have praised the popular scissors.
Back in 1628, a craftsman named Zhang Sijia opened a handmade scissors store in Yi County, Anhui Province. He later moved to Hangzhou and named the brand Zhang Xiaoquan.
Due to their durability and sharpness, Zhang’s scissors soon became popular in the city. People flocked to his store. Officials at one point even presented a pair to Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) as a tribute. The emperor was pleased with the fine scissors and awarded an inscription to Zhang.
Originally, 72 steps were required to make Zhang Xiaoquan scissors. The most difficult and toughest was embedding the steel into the iron. The brand uses steel for the edges while the other parts are forged from iron.
Although modern technology has simplified the manufacturing process immensely, the use of both steel and iron remains and this distinguishes the brand from others.
In order to preserve the original craft, the Hangzhou government and Zhang Xiaoquan Scissors Group set up a studio in the Workmanship Demonstration Pavilion of the Hangzhou Crafts and Arts Museum. Shi Jinshui, 82, and his two apprentices produce scissors according to the original 72-step process.
While other Hangzhou specialties are on the wane, including silk parasols and paper fans, demand for Zhang Xiaoquan scissors remains strong.
The exhibition ends on June 1.
Date: Through June 1, 9am-4:30pm (closed on Mondays)
Address: 336 Xiaohe Rd
Tel: (0571) 8819-7508
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