Dual Echoes
About the Artwork
The work Dual Echoes features two peacock chairs: one a faithful reproduction, the other a contemporary reinterpretation. The former combines the skills of artisans from three regions; the latter, a collaboration with Yue Kee Rattan Factory, showcases innovative colors and weaving techniques, blending tradition and modernity.
The iconic peacock chair, deeply embedded in Hong Kong's cultural identity, boasts a history rooted in Southeast Asia's rattan-weaving traditions. Frequently featured in Hong Kong films and media in the past, the peacock chair transcends mere functionality, becoming a nostalgic symbol of elegance and prosperity.
Story of Rattan Industry
Rattan is a type of vine that grows in tropical climates. It is strong and flexible, making it an ideal material for furniture. For centuries, rattan furniture has been popular in countries like China and India. In the early 20th century, the demand for rattan furniture began to spread to other parts of Asia, including Hong Kong. During the same period, a large influx of Chinese immigrants brought skilled rattan craftsmanship to Hong Kong.
Rattan wares were very popular in Hong Kong during the 1950s and 1960s. From shopping baskets for housewives and school bags for students to household items such as baskets and furniture, rattan goods were practical, environmentally friendly and aesthetically pleasing. Rattan factories, often operating also as retail shops, were widespread throughout Hong Kong. At its peak, over 200 rattan shops were operating throughout the city.
However, this golden era did not last. Making rattan wares was complicated, with many steps and much care required. The products could easily take a day or two to complete, but sometimes more than a month. As the years went by, despite the beauty and durability of the rattan products, the industry slowly went into decline due to the time and labor-intensive making process, low profitability, the decreasing number of apprentices, as well as the rise of plastic.
In the 1980s, mass-produced products began to flood the market, further driving down prices and putting pressure on handmade businesses like rattan shops. Today, only a handful of these shops are still operating in Hong Kong. They have managed to survive by catering to a niche market of customers who still appreciate craftsmanship and handmade quality.
Making Process
The creation of Dual Echoes demonstrates a meticulous approach to framework construction. It begins with a foundational structure, built using refined weaving techniques. By expertly heating the rattan pieces with open flame, they are made malleable for manipulation. Intricate patterns and secure knots reinforce this structure, providing a base for the final embellishments. Barnard Chan and Cecilia Lai's artistry is evident in the delicate floral motifs on the peacock chairs, achieved through rattan weaving.
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