Have we been using blankets wrong all these years? In cdramas, the blankets we commonly see are rectangular, similar to what we use today. However, in the TV series Guo Se Fang Hua, Yang Zi's blanket with a unique cut - out design is quite impressive. When pulled up, it snugly covers the shoulders, providing a sense of security.
This kind of blanket dates back to the Warring States period, making it a 'classic design'. In contrast, traditional rectangular quilts, though warm, often expose the shoulders because of their straight edges. During seasonal changes and cold winters, shoulders are vulnerable to cold drafts. The ancient concave - backed blanket has an ingenious design. Its tailored cut - out ensures the shoulders are well - covered, offering both comfort and excellent insulation. It's astonishing that this practical design, now seen as innovative, was adopted by our ancestors over two thousand years ago during the Eastern Zhou dynasty.
Auspicious Embroidery
The ancients loved embroidering auspicious patterns on blankets. The Warring States blanket used ancient lock - stitch embroidery with paired dragon and phoenix motifs in deep blue, emerald blue, red - brown, vermilion, and yellow threads. This is similar to the pattern on another garment unearthed at Mashan, symbolizing ancient dragon - phoenix auspiciousness.
The Meaning of 'Qin' (衾)
Blankets were called 'Qin' in ancient times. They were often layered with silk floss, like modern cotton or down, to enhance warmth. Ancient poets used 'Qin' to express hardships, loneliness, or longing at night. For example, Du Fu wrote in My Cottage Unroofed by Autumn Gales: 'My cotton quilt is cold as iron, my spoiled child kicks in sleep and tears it apart', reflecting the struggles of life. 'Qin' also symbolized unwavering love, as seen in Bai Juyi's Song of Everlasting Sorrow: 'The mandarin - duck tiles are cold with heavy frost; the kingfisher quilt is cold—with whom shall I share it?'
Adjustable U - shaped Blankets
The U - shaped blanket is adjustable. For better ventilation, you can expose more of the neck and chest by pulling the gap higher while still keeping warm. Some netizens joked about cutting a hole in their blankets and adding a border. But others raised concerns. They wondered what to do when sleeping and turning over. If you don't sleep still, the corners might press uncomfortably against the neck or body. Also, those who like to sleep with their arms outside the blanket and the issue of duvet covers slipping were considered.
Ultimately, the suitability of a blanket depends on personal preferences. If you sleep still and prefer to be wrapped tightly, the U - shaped blanket is a great choice; otherwise, the rectangular one is fine. After all, more choices mean more enjoyment. So, do you prefer the rectangular quilt or the U - shaped one? Share your thoughts in the comments!
