In pictures: The ancient art of Chengdu lacquerware

Chengdu lacquerware from southwest China's Sichuan Province is one of the country's earliest forms of lacquer art, with origins dating back over 3,000 years to the Shang (c. 1600-1046 BC) and Western Zhou (1046-771 BC) dynasties. In 2006, it was among the first traditions inscribed on China's list of national intangible cultural heritage. The art form uses natural raw lacquer and mineral pigments, combined with exquisite lacquer decoration techniques, to create its unique artistic style.

The core craftsmanship is renowned for its intricate techniques. Key among them are engraved silver-thread gloss, where artisans etch patterns onto applied silver foil; carved and color-filled patterns, made by carving designs and filling the recesses with colored lacquer that is then polished smooth; carved lacquer with hidden patterns, where foil is placed in shallow carvings and sealed under transparent lacquer polished to a mirror finish; and needle-point engraving, the craft of etching fine designs onto the final polished surface. Artisans apply dozens of layers of raw lacquer onto a base body (such as wood, bamboo or linen) and may embellish the work with materials like gold, silver and mother-of-pearl. The final product has a magnificent, delicate texture that is as smooth and lustrous as jade. The motifs are often drawn from the local culture, featuring flowers, birds, auspicious beasts, landscapes and traditional patterns, blending both practical and aesthetic value.

Chengdu lacquerware spread overseas along the Silk Road during the Han (206 BC-220 AD) and Tang (618-907) dynasties and remains an important symbol of Chinese culture today. While preserving ancient methods, modern artisans continuously innovate their designs, integrating this ancient craft into contemporary life and giving it new vitality.