Li Ziqi's back with lacquerware techniques

After being away from the public for about three years, Li Ziqi, a renowned Chinese internet influencer, made a comeback with new videos on Nov 12, showcasing her craftsmanship in making wardrobe doors for her grandmother using Chinese lacquerware techniques. This has captured the attention of netizens and shed light on this traditional intangible cultural heritage item.

An intricate dragon pattern carved by Li Ziqi using Chinese lacquerware techniques. [Photo/yznews.cn]

Currently, lacquerware production is widespread across the country, with Yangzhou standing out as one of the key centers for this traditional craft. Yangzhou lacquerware emerged in the Warring States Period (475-221 BC), flourished in the Han (206 BC-AD 220) and Tang (618-907) dynasties, and reached its zenith in the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing dynasties (1644-1911).

An elegant piece of Yangzhou lacquerware. [Photo/yznews.cn]

A single piece of Yangzhou lacquerware must undergo a series of craft processes, including designing, carpentering, filling and smoothing with putty, rough lacquering and then decorating. Intricate techniques such as painting, outlining, engraving, polishing, and embedding are employed at each stage.

Yangzhou lacquerware is renowned for its exquisite decorative techniques, each requiring dozens of intricate steps. During the decorating process, various techniques are often combined, resulting in the creation of elegant lacquerware that can take months or even years to complete.

Wu Xiayin, a member of the innovation studio at the Yangzhou Lacquerware Factory, remarked that while lacquerware crafting techniques could be refined through experience, a more challenging hurdle that lacquerware novices face is an allergic reaction to raw lacquer.

In the process of learning and making lacquerware, Li Ziqi and several members of her team experienced severe allergic reactions. However, overcoming this obstacle has helped Li foster a deep connection with the craft.