In Jingdezhen, the historic ceramic hub of the Chinese mainland, Li Yanxun has embarked on a two-decade quest to rediscover the essence of Tang Dynasty ceramics.
Originally from Chaozhou, Li realized early on that true artistry lies in the raw material, not just surface decoration. He set aside past accolades and dove deep into clay bodies and glaze chemistry, driven by a singular question: what makes Tang Sancai so enduring?
Through relentless experimentation, Li fired Tang Sancai glazes at 1,280°C, perfecting the vibrant greens, yellows, and browns that once graced imperial tables. His approach fuses traditional techniques with modern material science, yielding pieces that capture the spirit of ancient masters while speaking to contemporary tastes.
Li Yanxun's work is more than a revival – it's a bridge between eras. For young artisans, entrepreneurs, and travelers alike, his journey shows how heritage and innovation can spark new conversations around sustainability, craftsmanship, and cultural identity.
Reference(s):
The Millennial Kiln: Reviving Tradition through Fresh Innovation
cgtn.com
