A statue of Du Jinsheng is seen in Hangzhou. [Photo/Tide News]

A special exhibition titled Du Jinsheng and the West Lake Silk Umbrella opened at the Du Jinsheng Silk Brocade Museum in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, on Sept 1.

Du Jinsheng, a Hangzhou native, is regarded as a pioneer of modern silk weaving in China. The exhibition pays tribute to the patriotic entrepreneur while showing the vitality of intangible cultural heritage in contemporary times. 

The event coincides with the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War. With a theme of inheritance and protection, the exhibition highlights Du's patriotic spirit during wartime and his contributions to Chinese silk craftsmanship.

In 1931, Du led workers into the streets to denounce the Japanese invasion and boycott imported rayon. In 1937, following the fall of Hangzhou, he refused to serve in the puppet government and fled with his family to Shanghai after his mill was destroyed by occupying forces. In 1941, after Commander Xie Jinyuan — leader of the heroes who defended the Sihang Warehouse — was assassinated, Du publicly attended his memorial and presented a wreath in his own name.

The exhibition goes beyond physical artifacts, combining images, documents, and oral histories to allow visitors to connect with the memory of that era.

The exhibition runs from September to December and is open daily from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.