Fujian Putian Woodcarving
2025-07-11 22:01:25
Putian woodcarving has a long and rich history, flourishing during the Tang and Song dynasties and reaching its peak in the Ming and Qing periods. Known for their "delicate and transparent" style, these carvings were widely used in temple decorations, Buddha statues, and scriptures in the early Tang era. By the late Song and Yuan dynasties, intricate woodcarvings of characters, flowers, screens, and furniture became highly popular, with Zhu Xian's work being particularly renowned for its vivid details.
During the Ming Dynasty, Putian artisans specialized in carving religious figures and flat reliefs. The region became the largest woodcarving hub in China, with valuable pieces dominating the domestic market. Today, over 200,000 people are involved in the industry, focusing mainly on classical furniture and high-end mahogany pieces, which are both functional and collectible.
In the Northern Song period, Cai Jing, a prominent official, introduced advanced techniques from the imperial court into woodcarving, marking the beginning of Putian’s distinctive furniture-making tradition. One of the finest examples is the piano table featured in the Song Dynasty painting "Listening to the Qin," now housed in the Palace Museum in Beijing, which was presented by Cai Jing to Emperor Huizong.
By the end of the Song Dynasty, the import of rare woods like Philippine red sandalwood and chicken wing wood through Quanzhou and Fengting ports helped elevate the quality and popularity of Putian woodcarving. In the Ming era, the art developed a simple yet elegant style, while the Qing era saw more elaborate and ornate designs. Traditional techniques include round carving, openwork, relief, and root carving, with themes ranging from Buddhist figures to floral motifs and decorative objects.
Many historical relics remain today, such as Ming-era Mazu statues and ceremonial items in temples across Putian, Taiwan, Nagasaki, and Lushima. Xinghua was home to famous woodcarvers, including Liao Xi, a master from the late Qing Dynasty. His works, especially those featuring human figures and floral patterns, earned international recognition, including a gold medal at the 1903 Panama World Exposition. Pieces attributed to "Liao's Wood Carving" are now prized by collectors worldwide, with many still preserved in the Forbidden City Museum.
During the Ming Dynasty, due to maritime restrictions, the import of South Sea mahogany was limited, leading artisans to use locally available materials like longan wood. This resulted in unique, antique-style carvings often used in military uniforms, religious icons, and lacquered objects, adding to the richness and diversity of the craft.
Overall, Putian woodcarving is not just an art form but a reflection of cultural heritage, craftsmanship, and aesthetic values passed down through generations. Its legacy continues to inspire artists and collectors around the world.
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