Yam
Root
Yam Root — The Key to Xiangyun Sha
This translation highlights the significance of yam root in creating Xiangyun Sha, a traditional silk fabric from Nansha, while maintaining clarity and cultural context.
Qu Dajun (1630–1696), courtesy name Jiezi, and literary names Wengshan and Laipu, was a native of Panyu, Guangdong, with ancestral roots in Zigui, Jinghu North Road (now in Hubei Province). He was an early Qing dynasty scholar and poet, recognized as one of the "Three Great Poets of Lingnan".
In his work New Comments on Guangdong, Qu Dajun wrote:
"Yam root (Shuliang) grown in Beijiang is of superior quality. The white variety is unusable; only the red is suitable. The red yam root is rich in gelatinous sap, which fishermen use to dye fishing nets. It makes the hemp fibers smooth and resilient, not only improving their water resistance but also enhancing their durability against saltwater and decay. The sap of the yam root is naturally red but turns black when wet. Since fish belong to the element of fire yet thrive in water—which is black in color—the black-dyed nets harmonize with the nature of fish. Thus, it is said that fish gather where such nets are used."
NALANGE CHRONICLES
Editor-in-Chief: Wang Xuan
Photographer: Xiao Tie
Calligrapher: Zhi Ming
Costumes: WURAY MIRACLE, YUNSHA STAR RHYME
Dedicated to promoting Xiangyunsha silk as China’s intangible cultural heritage.
