Chaozhou woodcarving, one of China’s most famous schools of woodcarving in China, is primarily popular in the eastern Guangdong region, encompassing Chaozhou, Chao’an, Raoping, Shantou, Chenghai, Chaoyang, Jieyang, Puning, and Huilai—areas once governed by the former Chaozhou Prefecture.
With a long and rich history, Chaozhou woodcarving can trace its origins back before the Tang dynasty, took shape during the Tang and Song dynasties, matured in the late Ming, and reached its peak during the Qing dynasty. It declined during the War of Resistance Against Japan. Since the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, Chaozhou woodcarving has undergone several revivals. Through inheritance and innovation, this ancient art has regained its vitality and brilliance. In 2006, Chaozhou woodcarving was officially added to the national intangible cultural heritage list, becoming a valuable part of China’s cultural legacy.
Renowned for its opulent complexity, delicate craftsmanship, and resplendent gold-lacquer finish, Chaozhou woodcarving captivates people with its exquisite designs. The diverse range of carved objects, the themes and motifs full of everyday life and folk meaning, the meticulous carving techniques, and the magnificent lacquer-and-gold artistry, all vividly reflect the customs and humanistic spirit of the people in Chaoshan (Chaozhou and Shantou region), showcasing distinctive charm and captivating beauty!
The exhibition Beauty of Gilt Wood — The Art of Chaozhou Woodcarving consists of five parts:“Origins,” “Craftsmanship,” “Artistry,” “Function,” and “Appreciation.” Over 200 pieces (or sets) of woodcarving works are on display, representing a wide variety of types and outstanding examples: the grand and intricately detailed Large Longevity Screen with Lacquer Painting Depicting the Aesthetic Imagery of the Classic of Poetry; the exquisitely carved and lifelike Round-Carved Crab Basket; and various uniquely shaped and finely detailed religious and decorative pieces such as shrines, pavilions, sedan chairs, incense burner covers, banquet boxes, candy racks, and paper-tinder tubes—all dazzlingly diverse and richly colored. The exhibition team made full use of the spacious gallery, realistically recreating traditional Chaoshan home scenes such as reception halls, bedrooms, and studies. These vivid settings demonstrate how woodcarving pieces were used in everyday life in traditional Chaoshan society. Immersed in the strong cultural atmosphere of Chaoshan, visitors can delight in the beauty and gain a deep appreciation for the artistic allure and profound cultural significance of Chaozhou woodcarving.
(Written by Ling Xiao)
Highlights of the Exhibition
