Why China Li ethnic group’s 6,000-year pottery tradition passed down exclusively to women

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Fran LuJanuary 26, 2026 at 11:00 AM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

The Li ethnic group of Hainan Island, China, maintains a 6,000-year-old pottery tradition passed down exclusively to women. The Li are one of China's 56 official ethnic groups and the largest indigenous minority on Hainan Island. This unique custom reflects the group's historical matriarchal structure, which lasted until the mid-20th century. Li women harvest the soil and employ a primitive hand-building method, including coiling, and fire the pottery in bonfires. This contrasts with modern pottery techniques that use a wheel and sealed kilns. The tradition is a significant aspect of Li cultural heritage.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Hainan ×270% China ×280% Li ethnic group ×595%

Keywords

li ethnic group 100% pottery-making tradition 90% women 80% hainan 70% primitive method 60% matriarchal tradition 60% hand-making 50% coiling 40% ethnic minority 40%