Chinese Lacquer Ware For Experienced Shoppers In Beijing
In China, lacquer is considered one of the best materials for decorating household items. As early as 7,000 years ago, Chinese people began producing lacquer ware. Throughout China’s history, lacquer ware was used to decorate homes and symbolize status. When shopping in Beijing, don’t forget to find some exquisite Chinese lacquer ware in the amazing local shops of the city.
Starting in the Warring States Period, the use of lacquer ware gradually replaced the use of bronze vessels in many areas of China. In the 6th century, Chinese lacquer-making techniques were introduced to Japan. The lacquer ware industry started to flourish. In the Qing dynasty, Chinese lacquer items were exported to Europe in large numbers.
Visitors in Beijing are often surprised to see the like-new lacquer works they find in many of the city’s museums. Even though these items have been stored for hundreds of years, they are still smooth and bright. This is one of lacquer ware’s excellent qualities: it can be preserved for what seems like an eternity.
Generally, the great qualities of lacquer ware is its “four resists.” It resists moisture, heat, acid, and corrosion. The special material used to make it and the traditional techniques applied are what give these especially firm items such an amazing quality.
A lacquer ware item is as substantial and firm as it is lightweight. For art collectors, it’s literally a gift of two wonderful attributes that normally don’t go together. This unique strength lacquer ware has comes from the numerous layers of lacquer that are applied on the body. Even though its appealing surface looks delicate, it is very easy to wash and clean.
Nowadays China’s lacquer ware industry still prospers. Factories in different cities across the country produce lacquer works in different styles that have local characteristics. Beijing is still a major manufacturer, and the work produced here is famous for its multi-layer design and splendid red color.
A number of styles of lacquer ware are famous for their unique characteristics, they include: the elegant mother-of-pearl lacquer ware produced in Yangzhou, Jiangsu province, the especially durable lacquer ware from Fujian province, and the lacquer ware produced in Sichuan, Shanxi, Guizhou, Gansu, Jiangxi, and Shaanxi province.
Here is a list of the 14 major styles of Chinese lacquer ware:
1. Single-color ware
2. Clear-top coat
3. Lacquer-painted
4. Gilt
5. Lacquer-embossed ware
6. Lacquer-filled ware
7. Gold-filled ware
8. Lacquer-gold-filled ware
9. Mother-of-pearl
10. Carved ware
11. Rhinoceros-leather ware
12. Carved Multi-color
13. Multi-jewel ware
14. Bodiless ware
A well-done piece of lacquer ware is definitely one of the best decorations you can put in your home. The unique carvings, exquisite color, and mixed sense of magnificence, high-class, and mystery that it gives add style, taste, and beauty to your room.
Shop for authentic lacquer ware only in shops with well-established reputations. Beware, because there are many fake items and bad imitations in the market nowadays. First-time visitors in Beijing are especially vulnerable to being ripped-off by street vendors and dishonest gift shops. You can find a personal shopper to help you get to the best shops with true lacquer ware items.
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