Golden Dendrobium Threads
A Burmese group is reviving their tradition of adorning ethnic clothing with orchid threads. In northern Myanmar (also known as Burma,) they weave Dendrobium fibers into fabrics. Locally called “waso,” the orchid is Dendrobium moschatum, a species with great flowers and a musky fragrance. It’s native to lower elevations all around the Himalayas. Fibers made from their soft stems look “like gold threads,” and designs are “sewn by hand using porcupine quills as needles.” A local legend dating back 2500 years presents an ancient love story behind this unusual orchid tradition. Unfortunately, the article only includes one small picture of the colorful clothing, which makes it tough to appreciate the golden Dendrobium threads.
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September 20th, 2011 at 4:16 am
I just added this feed to my bookmarks. I have to say, I very much enjoy reading your blogs. Thanks!
September 20th, 2011 at 1:29 pm
That really interesting and I appreciate learning about ancient traditions. It always amazes me that most cultures have ways of incorporating nature into their personal, everyday lives. And I’m glad that such beautiful traditions are being revived.
October 7th, 2011 at 5:12 pm
Neat story. Thanks for the anthopology side of orchids.