Sedan Chair 

The “sedan chair” is a traditional mode of transportation, primarily used for travel on specific occasions, especially in ancient China. The structure of a sedan chair typically consists of an enclosed or semi-enclosed cabin, suspended on poles and carried by human labor. The basic construction of a sedan chair includes the frame, body, and roof. The frame is usually made of wood, capable of bearing weight. The body is the seating area for the passenger, while the roof provides protection from the elements. There are various types of sedan chairs, such as single-seater and double-seater, with the “flower sedan” being common for wedding ceremonies. In ancient times, sedan chairs were often used as a means of daily transportation for officials, nobility, and the wealthy, especially in cities. During weddings, sacrifices, and other significant occasions, sedan chairs served as important ceremonial vehicles, embodying ritualistic significance. The use of sedan chairs was typically associated with social status, with those riding in them often being people of the upper echelons of society, symbolizing a form of identity. The design and decoration of sedan chairs often reflected the cultural and aesthetic values of the time, with many featuring intricate carvings and paintings, possessing high artistic value. As society evolved, the use of sedan chairs gradually declined, with modern transportation replacing them. However, in some traditional festivals and cultural activities, sedan chairs are preserved as a cultural heritage.