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Continuing the Millennium Classical Achievements
In the ancient wetlands of the lower Yangtze River, around 7,000 years ago, the Hemudu clan, ancestors of the Chinese people, used animal bones, teeth, and hard stones to carve the first wooden fish sculpture in Chinese history. This simple “Tâ€-shaped fish carving was more than just an artwork—it was a spark that ignited the flame of artistic creation across China. Today, we turn our attention to Putian City in Fujian Province, a place where traditional craftsmanship has been revived and reimagined. The overseas media has even hailed this region as a beacon of cultural revival, showcasing masterful artistry rooted in tradition yet reaching global acclaim.
Putian is renowned for its rich variety of handicrafts, from wood carvings and classical furniture to jade sculptures, gold and silver jewelry, and religious figurines. Over 1,000 distinct varieties are produced here, each with its own unique style and heritage. The city’s arts and crafts industry has grown rapidly over the years, becoming a vital part of China’s cultural and economic landscape. During the "Eleventh Five-Year Plan" period, the sector experienced explosive growth, with output increasing by 12.5 times and maintaining an annual growth rate of over 80%. By 2009, there were more than 4,000 enterprises in the sector, employing 250,000 people and generating over 20 billion yuan in annual output. The city continues to lead in national and provincial competitions, winning hundreds of gold and silver medals.
With a history that dates back thousands of years, Putian's traditional craftsmanship has deep roots. Legend has it that during the Northern Song Dynasty, Prime Minister Cai Jing dreamed of a grand palace and inspired local artisans to create a unique style of wood-carved furniture blending calligraphy and painting. This innovation laid the foundation for the "sensual" craftsmanship that would later become synonymous with Putian.
In the 1930s and 1940s, artists like Zhu Tianshou and Chen Xiange brought new life to folk art through their collaborations, creating classic works that still inspire today. Many of these masterpieces can be found in temples, old houses, and historical sites, preserving the legacy of generations past. Recently, Putian wood carving was included in the list of national intangible cultural heritage projects, highlighting its significance not only locally but nationally.
As industrialization transformed many traditional crafts, Putian’s artisans adapted and innovated. They preserved the delicate "open-carving" techniques while developing a distinctive "Putian style." Master Mou Guoping’s work, "Wrapped Zen," exemplifies this evolution—where natural forms and spiritual meaning merge into a powerful visual statement.
Today, Putian’s influence extends far beyond its borders. From Beijing’s Panjiayuan to Shanghai’s City God Temple and Guangzhou’s River Road, Putian wood carvings are recognized and valued worldwide. The city has also seen rapid growth in related industries such as jade, stone, and bronze carving, as well as lacquerware and jewelry. With over 1,000 product varieties, Putian has become a major hub for both domestic and international markets.
Putian is known as the "Literary State of Literature" and the "Zou Lu of the Seashore," a city rich in culture and history. Its famous Mazu culture, which has endured for over a millennium, continues to attract admiration from Chinese communities around the world. The China (Putian) Strait Arts & Crafts Expo, launched in 2006, has become one of the largest and most prestigious events in the industry, promoting cross-strait exchanges and enhancing Putian’s reputation on the global stage.
Currently, Putian holds several titles, including "China City of Wood Carvings" and "Capital of Chinese Classical Craft Furniture." It is home to numerous leading enterprises, brand-name products, and patented technologies. Companies like Huachang Jewelry have gained international recognition for their innovative designs, further solidifying Putian’s status as a cultural and commercial powerhouse.
Through annual art fairs and participation in national exhibitions, Putian has successfully expanded its market reach and built a strong industry presence. These efforts have not only boosted economic growth but also reinforced the city’s role as a cultural leader. Looking ahead, the China (Putian) Strait Arts & Crafts Expo is poised to grow into a symbol of the city’s enduring artistic legacy and promising future.