More than 1,300 years after its heyday, Tang Sancai is experiencing a modern renaissance. This tri-colored glazed pottery style, renowned for its vibrant yellow, green, and white glazes, first captivated the world during the Tang dynasty and continues to shine today.
In 2008, the Tang Sancai firing technique was inscribed on the Chinese mainland’s National Intangible Cultural Heritage List. On the March 1 episode of “Culture China Tour”, viewers were invited to Luoyang in Henan province on the Chinese mainland to explore the enduring cultural charm of this ancient craft.
At the Luoyang Museum’s dedicated exhibition hall, daily visitors from across the Chinese mainland marvel at Tang Sancai figures and vessels. The term sancai, literally “three colors”, draws on classical Chinese usage, where the number three signifies multiplicity and richness. On display are elaborately dressed female figurines that reveal Tang aesthetic preferences, as well as horse and camel statuettes that reflect the dynasty’s flourishing foreign trade along the Silk Road.
Creating Tang Sancai involves an intricate, 30-step process—from sourcing clay and shaping figures to glazing and kiln firing. During firing, the glazes melt and merge, producing the smooth, fluid transitions that define the art form.
Since its heritage designation, a new generation of artisans has infused innovation into tradition. By incorporating modern materials and techniques, they blend historical authenticity with contemporary design. One standout approach, sancai glaze painting, expands the traditional color palette and integrates elements of Chinese ink painting, opening fresh avenues for creative expression.
Today, the revival of Tang Sancai bridges past and present, drawing art lovers, entrepreneurs, and global travelers into its colorful world. As artisans continue to push boundaries, this ancient craft proves that tradition and innovation can coexist, inspiring new stories for audiences around the globe.
Reference(s):
Reviving Tang Sancai: Ancient Tri-Colored Glazed Pottery Shines Anew
cctv.com
