Knowledge Transfer Models in Cantonese Furniture Craftsmanship Genealogy: An Integrated Framework of Apprenticeship System and Digital Preservation

Abstract

Cantonese furniture craftsmanship, a centuries-old tradition recognized as cultural treasure, faces serious threats from fewer craftsmen and broken knowledge passing. This study examines how craft knowledge flows through master-student lines and proposes a combined approach mixing traditional apprenticeship with digital preservation. Analysis reveals centralized patterns where knowledge gathers around master craftsmen. Analysis reveals that traditional apprenticeship works well for transferring hands-on skills but struggles with teaching more people, while digital technologies save teachable knowledge permanently but cannot capture physical feel needed for mastery. Our three-layer approach strengthens traditional apprenticeship through money support while carefully using digital tools as extra learning aids. Trial run proved this working-together idea—apprentices using mixed methods learned techniques more quickly while masters appreciated creating recorded legacies. The approach offers a practical model respecting traditional values while using modern technology, with potential usefulness to other endangered crafts facing similar passing-down challenges.