The Analysis and Creation of Chinese Lanterns Identity Book for Product Design

Abstract

This study aims to explore the cultural identity of Chinese lanterns and their innovative application in contemporary product design. The specific objectives are: (1) to analyze the identity elements of traditional Chinese lanterns; (2) to develop a Chinese Lantern Identity Book for use in design practice; and (3) to create and evaluate product designs inspired by lantern identity. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining literature review, fieldwork, semiotic analysis, expert interviews, surveys, and user testing. Sixteen types of Chinese lanterns listed as national intangible cultural heritage were selected for analysis. Key identity components—including craftsmanship, form, material, patterns, and colors—were extracted and evaluated through expert consultation. The findings were synthesized into a structured identity framework. The Chinese Lantern Identity Book was then developed based on this framework, and its usability was evaluated by 400 general users and expert reviewers. Finally, five lantern-inspired product prototypes were created and assessed by nine experts and 200 users. The study identified six representative lantern categories and developed a systematic identity model. The Identity Book was rated highly in terms of cultural representation (M = 4.13), visual layout (M = 4.10), and usability (M = 4.05), indicating its effectiveness as a design reference. Product prototypes demonstrated strong cultural alignment, with Model 1 receiving the highest scores in cultural communication (4.05), craftsmanship precision (4.15), and uniqueness (4.10). The research proposes a structured process of “identity analysis—book development—product innovation” that effectively bridges traditional cultural heritage and modern product design. The study validates how intangible cultural aesthetics can be preserved and reinterpreted through design tools and consumer-oriented applications. Despite its contributions, the study highlights challenges in standardizing cultural identity elements across diverse lantern types and regions. Further research is needed to explore cross-cultural applicability and long-term user engagement with culturally inspired products.