Nestling in central Fujian, Dehua has perfected porcelain craftsmanship since the Tang and Song dynasties (618-1279), peaking during Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911) as a global trade staple alongside silk and tea.
Utilizing premium local kaolin clay, artisans employ two methods: direct hand-sculpting or mold-casting. Pieces are fired unglazed or glazed at more than 1000C, creating luminous "China white" wares.
The Ming Dynasty saw master He Chaozong pioneer eight techniques including pinching, carving and engraving. He produced figurines so exquisite they became European royalty collectibles, earning Dehua porcelain its "Oriental Art Treasure" title. Despite the late-Qing decline, masters like Su Xuejin and Xu Youyi sustained the tradition, winning gold medals at international expos.
Yet today, dwindling youth interest threatens this heritage, with most practitioners now aged over 60 years old. Urgent safeguards are needed to prevent the loss of this UNESCO-recognized craft that once bridged East-West aesthetics.
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