Bamdian
The Bamdian, or apron, is considered a symbol of Tibetan women because of its eye-catching colors and design. As an indispensable part of female dress in Tibet, this beautifully woven woolen fabric, usually no wider than 12 cm (5 inches), displays different decorations and colors to distinguish between the young and the old, commoners and nuns.
The best aprons in Tibet are produced in the town of Gyaidexiu, Gonggar County. One of the eight ancient towns in Tibet, Gyaidexiu is renowned as the 'home of aprons' not only for its more than 500 year history in apron production, but also for the quality of the garments produced. This quality results from the scrupulous selection of materials, the exquisite weaving skills and conspicuously bright colors of the aprons produced. After a complicated process of spinning, weaving and repeated dyeing, the Gyaidexiu aprons boast good durability, with the colors remaining unfaded through the years.
Once exclusively for the use of married women, in present-day Tibet the Bamdian has become favoured among young girls. It is also regarded by tourists. With its rainbow-like design, it characterises the streets of Tibetan cities and towns. As well as Gyaidexiu, Dranang County is also notable for its age-old weaving industry. Here one can find a wide range of pulu products, another characteristic Tibetan woolen fabric. In Lhasa , Tsedang, as well as other Tibetan cities, the colorful Bamdian and pulu are easy to find.
Tibetan Incense
Tibetan incenses are unique both in materials used and manufacturing process. The incenses are not only essential in the life of Tibetans, but nowadays also appear as souvenirs in the markets. Though the Barkhor Street and other local markets provide a wide range to choose from, the most famous Tibetan incense is that produced in the Mindroling Monastery .
Legend has it that the incenses produced in the monastery were once restricted for the exclusive use of Dalai Lamas. Apart from their persistent fragrance, the mystically-made incenses are famed for their astounding effects in preventing and curing diseases. The formula was said to have been invented by the founder of the monastery and to this day known to only a few lamas. A factory for incense production, covering both the domestic and overseas markets, has been built in the monastery. The incenses can also be found on sale in the shops of the monastery.
Graphite Products
The county of Gyatsa boasts not only the lake, Lhamo Latso , but is also rich in graphite resources. Graphite products such as pots and bowls enjoy fame in Tibet not only for their elegant appearance but also for their performance in heat preservation. Food cooked in graphite pots is given a richer flavor than that in earthenware pots. Long-term use is said to assist in health care and help prevent cancers.
