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Finding Amazing Chinese Lacquer Ware When Shopping In Beijing
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by: AndyLao
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Word Count: 522
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.
China's lacquer ware industry flourished during the Warring States Period, as more and more people started to use lacquer ware to replace bronze vessels. Just before the Tang dynasty, Chinese lacquer-making techniques were introduced to Japan. During the Qing dynasty, Europeans started to import Chinese lacquer items from China in large numbers.
The superior quality of lacquer ware is undisputed. In ancient tombs, lacquer ware is usually the only group of items that have kept their original form largely intact. In many of Beijing's museums, visitors can find a great number of beautiful lacquer works used by ancient Chinese royalty that look as though they were just made.
The best qualities of lacquer ware is sometimes referred to as the "four resists." It resists moisture, heat, acid, and corrosion, the four biggest potential hazards associated with the preservation of any household item. The unique material used to make it and the traditional techniques applied give it these great qualities.
Even though it's substantial and firm, a lacquer ware is very light. Its strength comes not from the density of the material or the size of its body, but the multiple layers of lacquer painted to make it. Because lacquer ware is strong, its beautiful and smooth surface is not easily damaged. Washing it is also an easy task.
Nowadays there are lacquer ware factories in China that produce works even more beautiful than the famous antiques. Local flair characterizes the work produced in the different cities. Beijing remains a major manufacturer, and the products it makes are known for their special multi-layer design and noble red color.
The exquisite mother-of-pearl lacquer ware produced in Yangzhou, Jiangsu province, the beautiful and especially durable lacquer ware made in Fujian province, and the lacquer ware from Sichuan, Shanxi, Guizhou, Gansu, Jiangxi, and Shaanxi province are all popular products liked by both Chinese art collectors and visitors to China.
There are about 14 major styles of lacquer ware produced in China, they are:
1. Single-color
2. Clear-top-coat ware
3. Lacquer-painted ware
4. Gilt
5. Lacquer-embossed
6. Lacquer-filled ware
7. Gold-filled ware
8. Lacquer-gold-filled
9. Mother-of-pearl ware
10. Carved
11. Rhinoceros-leather ware
12. Carved Multi-color
13. Multi-jewel
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.
Lacquer ware is a popular product, but there are a lot of fake items and bad imitations in Beijing's markets. When you are shopping in Beijing, remember to always shop in places with good reputations. It is best to find a personal shopper to assist you and help you find the right shops. One dark side of shopping is Beijing is there are many dishonest street vendors and gift shops with low quality products.
Article Source: StepsIT
About the Author
A. Lao has written about Chinese arts and crafts for years. He now works with a Beijing personal shopper who helps tourists find unique Chinese items. From time to time, he personally tailors shopping trips in Beijing.
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