On October 25, in an interview with reporters, Zhou Huajun, Deputy Director of the Propaganda Department of Longquan City in Lishui, Zhejiang, shared exciting news about a newly launched project. “We are officially kicking off the ‘National Treasure Revival: Reproducing Classics’ initiative for the Longquan Celadon series. Over the next three years, we plan to document and replicate 300 classic Longquan celadon artifacts to establish a comprehensive sample library. Through replication, transformation, and application, we aim to breathe new life into Longquan celadon, carrying forward its ancient heritage while embracing innovation.”
The art of traditional Longquan celadon production dates back to the Three Kingdoms and Jin dynasties, flourishing during the Song and Yuan dynasties. It stands as a cultural symbol, recognized alongside Song poetry and painting, and is the first ceramic project to be included in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Between the 12th and 15th centuries, Longquan celadon gained popularity not only in China but also in the global ceramics market, serving as a messenger of traditional trade and cultural exchange.
In recent years, the Longquan municipal government has focused on deepening, materializing, and transforming celadon culture, continually promoting the creative transformation and innovative development of Longquan celadon culture to infuse it with vitality in the modern era.
Prior to launching the celadon replication initiative, an expert committee conducted thorough research, referencing research institutions and historical texts, including the “Song Painting Collection.” After extensive consultations with scholars, industry associations, and collectors, a consensus was reached on the first 103 artifacts to be replicated, spanning from the Five Dynasties to the Qing Dynasty.
“The launch of the Longquan celadon replication project allows us to better preserve our historical heritage. By organizing classic celadon models and delving into the stories behind each artifact, we vividly demonstrate the journey of celadon culture from its origins through its peak and continuing innovation. This clarity enhances our understanding of its historical lineage and enriches the traditional culture as it evolves,” stated Hu Zhaoxiong, Director of the Longquan Celadon Research Institute.
To revitalize historical classics, Longquan has implemented a “hundred artisans replicate a hundred artifacts” approach, bringing together skilled artisans from different generations. This initiative not only preserves traditional techniques but also imbues celadon culture with contemporary value, elevating the art form through a process of innovation and adherence to tradition.
Once the replication of the classic artifacts is completed, Longquan plans to amplify the project’s impact through promotional activities, domestic and international exhibitions, the development of celadon cultural products, and integrated cultural tourism events. They also intend to compile the “Longquan Celadon Compendium” to further enhance the cultural brand of “Longquan for the World.”
Chen Aiming, President of the Longquan Celadon Industry Association, emphasized the importance of the replication project. “It’s necessary to engage industry professionals in the alignment of replicated models and artisans. This initiative not only pays tribute to our classics but also serves as an opportunity for learning and development, benefiting the promotion of Longquan celadon culture and its innovative industry growth.”
“I’m replicating the Longquan black-bodied celadon flower cup and the Longquan celadon string-patterned earthen jar for this project. As a bearer of intangible heritage, this is both a mission and a responsibility for me. We must sincerely carry forward this invaluable legacy left by history,” expressed Yan Shaoying, a representative inheritor of Longquan celadon production techniques.
