A cascade of stellar sparks at a fireworks show – created by hurling molten iron against handheld sticks – wowed the crowds at the Qinhu River National Wetland Park, in the Jiangyan district of Taizhou city, in East China's Jiangsu province.
The visual extravaganza took place on Feb 4 – the day before the Chinese Lantern Festival – adding to the exciting festive vibes.
Da tiehua, or Molten Iron Fireworks, is an ancient technique that is listed as a national intangible cultural heritage item. It can be traced all the way back to the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC).
The Chinese word for flower – hua – has a sound similar to the Mandarin words for prosperity, fa. So, the practice also embodies the wishes of people for a thriving career and a prosperous future.
Radiating an intense arc of sparks, a molten iron fireworks show is performed at Qinhu River National Wetland Park. [Photo/cctv.com]
Reminiscent of a brilliant quadrant of the cosmos, thousands of tiny sparks fly around at speed, creating a visual effect that almost defies belief. [Photo/cctv.com]
Awe-inspiring: Mesmerizing showers of sparks dazzle the crowd at the Qinhu River National Wetland Park. [Photo/cctv.com]