Firecrackers: The Art and History

Universally popular, uncommonly loud, a pyrotechnic spectacle that inspires laughter, delight and a healthy dose of frayed nerves—what else but the firecracker! These little sticks of paper and powder have captured the imagination of cultures the world over since the Chinese invented them centuries ago. As practical, chemical developments in firecracker production proceeded apace, the popular art form of label design flourished, leaving us with a remarkable visual record of the myths and cultural attitudes of the Chinese manufacturers and their markets. FIRECRACKERS explores the art form in detail, linking it to history and exploring its relevance in the various cultures that ceremonialize this peculiar bang. Includes reproductions of over 100 full-color labels, as well as tips on finding and saving firecracker art.