Fireworks are a major component of the main festivals and celebrations around the world.

A great number of fireworks shows happened during summer time in the Northern hemisphere, and along the celebrations, many pyrotechnic competitions and exhibitions.

Fireworks originated in China, during the Song dynasty (960-1979). Used during festivities, it was believed than fireworks could expel evil spirits and bring luck and happiness.

Before using the explosive powder, people used to throw bamboo stems into fire (Han dynasty, 202 BC-2020 AD). This then produced an explosion with lots of noise until it was replaced by gunpowder firecrackers.

(An illustration of a fireworks display from the1628-1643 edition of the novel)

The colour of fireworks derives from the application of chemical compounds. Nitrates were initially used to create smoke and fire signals in various colours, particularly effective in warfare and military application.

Nowadays, a combination of chemical elements creates fire-flowers blooming in our skies.

It is hard to say whether fireworks, and gunpowder, have been brought in Europe by the Mongols who were spread from China to central Europe by the mid-13th century, or they have been invented at a similar time separately. One of the first mentions of fireworks has been made in 1267 by Roger Bacon, an English monk who had recorded seeing firecrackers, likening them to the flash of lightning and the growl of thunder.

(An 18th-century illustration of Chinese fireworks from an English abstract of the text by the French Jesuit Pierre Nicolas d'Incarville)

Starting on the 14th century, fireworks were produced in Europe, becoming more popular a few centuries later. There was still difference in the way they were made, Chinese's fireworks being considered more developed and spectacular. During the 19th century, many European studied their Asian counterparts, bringing recreational and ceremonial uses of fireworks to the European courts.

(Etching showing the Royal Fire-workes and Illuminations in Whitehall and on the River Thames on Monday 15 May 1749)

Along with the colours, what awes us when we crank our neck to look at the night sky is the variety of shapes and explosion. Which one do you prefer?

Are you ready for a festival of fireworks?