The button tree, a fascinating aspect of Chinese culture, serves as a symbol of connection and communication. This guide delves into its historical significance, cultural relevance, and the intricate craftsmanship involved in its creation. Understanding the button tree offers insights into traditional Chinese values and social structures, making it a vital topic for anyone interested in cultural studies.
Readers can expect to explore the origins of the button tree, its evolution over time, and its role in contemporary society. The guide will also highlight various styles and techniques used in crafting these unique pieces, showcasing the artistry and skill of artisans. By the end, readers will gain a comprehensive understanding of the button tree’s significance in both historical and modern contexts.
A Comprehensive Guide to Chinese Buttons
China buttons, a fascinating piece of history, represent a significant chapter in the button-making industry. Their production spanned from the early industrial revolution around 1840 until 1950, marking a remarkable period of mass production. These buttons, sometimes called agates by manufacturers and Prosser buttons by archaeologists, are remarkably durable. They are frequently unearthed in archaeological digs across America, showcasing their longevity and resilience. This guide will delve into the intricacies of identifying and understanding these unique artifacts. Websites like www.replacements.com offer examples of China buttons as part of vintage dinnerware sets, while www.nationalbuttonsociety.org provides detailed information on button types. Houseofstitches.com and mrba.website also offer insights into the world of buttons and their history.
Technical Features of China Buttons
A key characteristic of many Chinese buttons is their pebbled or “orange peel” texture on the back. However, some exhibit a smoother, glossier reverse. This variation doesn’t necessarily indicate a different material; the composition evolved over time, with later buttons incorporating more glass. Despite this, their classification as “China” remains consistent. The initial composition involved high-fire porcelain, which gradually changed to include more glass. Determining the precise composition requires specialized kiln testing. Furthermore, context plays a vital role in identification. Buttons found alongside other known Chinese buttons on sample cards or in historical collections are classified accordingly, even if their exact pattern or color isn’t documented.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Material | Primarily high-fire porcelain, later versions with increased glass content |
| Back Texture | Typically pebbled or “orange peel,” sometimes smooth and glassy |
| Manufacturing | Mass-produced, primarily in China and later in Briare, France |
| Identification | Based on historical records, visual similarity to known samples, and context |
| Durability | High, often surviving better than metal buttons in archaeological contexts |
Types of China Buttons
The classification of Chinese buttons often involves a hierarchical system, beginning with the fundamental body style. This style is further broken down into categories based on the number of holes (two, three, or four), and then by specific design elements. The “Guidelines for Collecting China Buttons” serves as a primary reference for identification, although many variations exist beyond its scope. A flow chart approach can be helpful for systematic identification. The most common types include: sew-through buttons (whistles, igloos, hollow eyes, fisheyes, oval eyes, panty-waists, pattern eyes, radiating line rims, hobnails, saucers, dishes, inkwells, and tire-type variants); and non sew-through buttons (gaiters, birdcages, TWISS, pin shanks, self shanks, and shoe buttons).
| Type | Holes | Shape/Design | Distinguishing Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whistle | 1 | Conical with a hole | Hole on top for sound production |
| Igloo | 2 | Rounded with a hump | Hump on top resembling an igloo |
| Hollow Eye | 2 | Circular depression | Two holes in a perfectly circular well |
| Fisheye | 2 | Spindle-shaped well | Two holes in a spindle-shaped well |
| Oval Eye | 2 | Oval depression | Two holes in an oval depression, rounded or boxed ends |
| Panty Waist | 2 | Oval, no sewing well | Two large holes without a defined sewing well |
| Pattern Eye | 2, 3, 4 | Molded design | Design integrated with holes, various patterns (shells, plaid, stars) |
| Radiating Line Rim | 2, 3, 4 | Lines from center | Lines radiating from center, holes not integrated into design |
| Hobnail | 2, 3, 4 | Concave/convex bumps | Concave or convex bumps on the surface |
| Saucer | 2, 3, 4 | Concave top | Smooth, concave top with straight sides and convex back |
| Dish | 2, 3, 4 | Beveled rim | Smooth, beveled rim, often shallow |
| Inkwell | 2, 3, 4 | Beveled rim | Smooth, beveled rim, taller than a dish, resembling a volcano |
| Tire | 2, 3, 4 | Rounded rim | Rounded or raised rim |
| Offbeat | 2, 3, 4 | Varied | Unique designs not fitting other categories |
Conclusion
Identifying Chinese buttons requires a multi-faceted approach. Combining an understanding of their historical context, technical features, and the detailed typologies outlined in resources like the “Guidelines for Collecting China Buttons” is essential. While a comprehensive guide can be helpful, experience and close examination of individual buttons are crucial for accurate identification. Remember that the visual characteristics, combined with the button’s history, are critical to proper identification.
FAQs
1. What materials were used to make Chinese buttons?
Initially, Chinese buttons were made from high-fire porcelain. Later, more glass was incorporated into their composition.
2. How can I tell the difference between a smooth-backed and pebbled-backed Chinese button?
The back texture variation doesn’t inherently distinguish different materials. Both smooth and pebbled backs can be found on genuine Chinese buttons.
3. Are all Chinese buttons listed in the “Guidelines for Collecting China Buttons”?
No, many variations and less common types exist beyond the scope of the guidelines.
4. What is the significance of the context in which a button is found?
Context is crucial. A button found with other known Chinese buttons on a sample card or in a historical collection is more likely to be authentic.
5. How durable are Chinese buttons?
Chinese buttons are remarkably durable, often outlasting metal buttons in archaeological contexts. This contributes to their frequent discovery in historical sites.