Historically, Chinese candles were primarily made from natural substances such as beeswax and waxes derived from specific insects.
Traditional Materials for Chinese Candles
The long history of candle-making in China showcases an innovative approach to utilizing natural resources for illumination. For centuries, Chinese artisans perfected techniques for creating candles from materials distinct to their environment and technological advancements.
- Beeswax: As far back as the Tang Dynasty (618-907 A.D.), beeswax was a fundamental material for candle production in China. This natural wax, secreted by honey bees, was favored for its clean burn and the subtle, pleasant aroma it released.
- Insect Wax (Coccos pella): A significant development occurred by the 12th century when methods were established to extract candle wax from the Coccos pella insect. This unique insect-derived wax provided another sustainable and effective material for manufacturing candles, demonstrating the ingenuity of ancient Chinese craftsmanship in processing natural resources.
These traditional materials highlight China's early self-sufficiency in candle production, leveraging local biological resources. This contrasts with practices in other parts of the world, such as early Japan, where tree nut extracts were used for wax, or India, where the fruit of the cinnamon tree was boiled for a similar purpose.
Evolution and Modern Interpretations
While beeswax and insect waxes formed the historical foundation, modern Chinese candles, similar to global candle trends, may incorporate a broader range of materials to meet various needs for scent, burn time, and cost. These can include:
- Paraffin Wax: A petroleum-based wax widely used today due to its affordability and versatility in candle production.
- Soy Wax: A natural, biodegradable wax derived from soybean oil, favored for its clean burn and eco-friendliness.
- Palm Wax: Sourced from palm oil, often used for its hardness and ability to create unique crystalline patterns.
- Blends: Many candles are made from blends of different waxes to combine their best properties, such as a mix of paraffin and stearin (a fatty acid) to improve hardness and burn duration.
Nevertheless, when discussing the historical and traditional essence of Chinese candles, the core materials remain beeswax and the specialized Coccos pella insect wax.
Here's a summary of the historical materials used in Chinese candle making:
| Material Type | Historical Period / Development | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Beeswax | Tang Dynasty (618-907 A.D.) | Natural, clean-burning, often possessing a light, sweet scent |
| Coccos pella Insect Wax | Developed by 12th century | Insect-derived, indicative of advanced natural resource processing |
