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| Yangzhou
Local Specialties: |
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Yangzhou
Lacquerware:
Lacquer is a natural substance obtained from the lacquer tree, which
has its home in China. Lacquerware is a kind of time-honored, sumptuous
and high-grade ornament with a long history of 2,300 years. Moisture-proof,
resistant to heat, acid and alkali, its color and luster are highly
durable, adding beauty to its practical use.
Yangzhou lacquer articles are distinguished not only by carvings in
relief but by exquisite patterns inlaid with jade, gems, bones, gold,
ivory and mother of pearl. The products, with more than 500 varieties,
are normally screens, cabinets, tables, chairs, vases, trays, cups,
boxes and ashtrays.
Lacquer ware pieces are not just a decorative accessory but a fine
piece of heirloom quality art. Combining simplicity with elegance,
the graceful shapes, the wonderful carved designs and the candlelight
warmth of the cinnabar, Yangzhou lacquer ware products are outstanding
and are exported to more than 60 countries.
Jade Ware:
Jade carving, the oldest Chinese traditional craftsmanship in human
history, dates back about 10,000 years ago. Jade ware in early period
was mainly used for personal decoration. As time was going, it became
more and more sought after. A large number of exquisite jade objects
were produced 4,000 years ago. Jade ware then was mainly used for
witchcraft and as an emblem of privileges.
The jade-carving technique developed fast in the Spring and Autumn
and Warring States periods (B.C 770--B.C 221.) This period was known
for its well- carved and exquisite jade ware. The patterns of dragon,
phoenix and Panli (a figure of Chinese folklore) on the jade decorations
are still treasured today. Later, through the ages to Qing Dynasty
Jade carving technique reaches its peak level and jade wares were
commissioned by the nobility to show their wealth and status.
Jade, with characteristics of stone's hardness and water's softness,
seems to be the combination of the spirit of mountain and water. There
were different points of view about jade at all times and all over
the world. In modern West, mineralogy defines real jade as Nephrite
and Jadeite, which is the term for jade in the narrowest sense. The
earliest Chinese definition -- a kind of beautiful stone with five
virtues -- gentle, sensitive, genuine, moral, persevering, is a broad
sense for jade. Chinese choice and cognizance of jade has changed
with the advancement of different eras. The patterns of China's jade
have rich connotations showing strong auspicious colors.
Good materials provide strong basics for jade carving, but the value
of a jade object depends on the skills and reputation of craftsmen,
the dates of carving, peculiar modeling and the owner's status. Yangzhou’s
jade carving has a long history and it is famous for its high selected
material, novel and unique design and excellent workmanship. The jade
incense burner with five dragons is the masterpiece and had won national
prize. |
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| Spectacular Qutang,
elegant Wu and majestic Xiling - they are no illusion but truly
world wonders, even after the big dam is complete. Let images
in our gallery be your guidance when planning your next China
Trip. |
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