The varnishing lacquer ware of Pingyao County is listed in the first national non-material cultural heritage list. Many visitors from Hong Kong, Taiwan and other countries are likely to buy Pingyao lacquer wares when they visit the old city of Pingyao, northwest China's Shanxi Province.
Pingyao Varnishing Lacquer Ware.
Pingyao Varnishing Lacquer Ware. [art.people.com.cn]
The local handicraftsman said that the lacquer was not only moisture-proof, but also environmentally-friendly, which made the lacquer wares more exquisite and precious. Moreover, it took at least 30 procedures to make lacquer ware in traditional way. The varnishing lacquer ware of Pingyao is made of natural raw lacquer. Then through embedding, sculpting, carving, mosaics and colored painting, the lacquer ware is decorated with patterns of mountains and waters, flowers and birds, figures and pavilions. Finally ornaments made of copper are installed, and the varnished lacquer ware is carefully finished. The finished products are simple and elegant. The surface of the lacquer ware is smooth and lustrous. It’s resistant to high temperatures, acids and alkali.
Pingyao Varnishing Lacquer Ware.
The official of the local government said that Pingyao County was famous for the old city, beef, and varnishing lacquer ware. Now, the manufacturing industry of varnishing lacquer ware is fast developing based on the traditional skills and techniques.