Pingyao Polished Lacquerware

Pingyao Polished Lacquerware

Pingyao polished lacquerware is a product protected under geographical indication.

Pingyao polished lacquerware is a certified geographical indication trademark.

　　 Polished lacquerware is a high-end painted lacquer product created through a specialized polishing technique using the palm of the hand — hence the name. A renowned craft from Shanxi, Pingyao polished lacquerware features an elegant and classic appearance, a radiant glossy finish, exquisitely painted patterns in resplendent colors, a smooth and delicate texture, as well as heat and moisture resistance. Its durability makes it a true masterpiece among lacquerware.

　　 Historical records indicate that the production of polished lacquerware in Pingyao dates back to the Kaiyuan era of the Tang Dynasty, boasting a long history. Current varieties mainly include high-end screens, hanging scrolls, TV cabinets, wardrobes of various sizes, corner cabinets, wine cabinets, display cabinets, and jewelry boxes. The base coats are often in colors such as jet black, rosy red, apricot yellow, greenish-purple, adorned with patterns in ethnic styles, such as characters from classical novels and operas, ancient myths, and legendary tales. These may be gold-traced, painted in color, carved and inlaid, or built up with relief and embedded materials. The lines are fluid, the tones harmonious, and the overall aesthetic is luxurious and splendid.

　　 The production of Pingyao polished lacquerware involves five main processes: wooden frame crafting, base coating, lacquering, painting, and inlaying. In the wooden frame workshop, pine wood is used to create the base shapes for various furniture items. Then, in the base coating workshop, these frames are wrapped with white hemp, coated with a layer of brick dust mixed with pig’s blood — a process known as “wrapping with hemp and applying base.” The lacquering process is extremely meticulous and complex. For every layer of lacquer applied to the base, the surface is first wiped with a damp water sandpaper. After wiping, it is then repeatedly polished by hand until the surface feels smooth. Depending on the item, this is followed by six to seven layers of lacquer application, with even more careful polishing afterward. Coarse water sandpaper is used first, then fine, then cotton cloth, then silk, and even a strand of human hair is rolled up to polish the surface. Sometimes hands dipped in sesame oil or soybean oil are used, or the palm is repeatedly rubbed over the lacquer. Relying on skill, precision, intuition, and repetition, the lacquer surface is polished to a brilliant, mirror-like shine. The painting and inlaying workshops demand even higher technical expertise. Painters must study painting techniques for at least four years and master the basics before being allowed to independently apply gold and color accents on the lacquer surface. The engravers’ blades must be as precise as paintbrushes, with controlled depth and flowing strokes. At the inlaying workstations, the air shimmers with purple hues and the sound of tools clinking as workers shape river mussel shells, mother-of-pearl, ivory, and colored stones into various components. These are then intricately set and firmly affixed by inlay artisans according to the design requirements.

　　 In recent years, both the production and techniques of polished lacquerware have seen new advancements and improvements. In 1977, it was certified as an “exemption from inspection” product by national authorities. In 1978, it was named a “trustworthy” product by the provincial government and was also awarded the title of Provincial High-Quality Product. Today, Pingyao polished lacquerware is exported to 28 countries and regions around the world, making it a popular commodity in the international market.