By Liu Wei
In the heart of Luoyang, an ancient city in Henan Province, the Zhang family has been quietly preserving a art form that dates back over a millennium. Tangsancai, or Tang Dynasty Tri-glazed Ceramics, once adorned the tombs of emperors, symbolizing wealth and status. Today, the youngest generation of the Zhang family is bringing this historical craft back into the spotlight, infusing it with contemporary artistry while honoring its rich heritage.
Walking into the Zhangs’ ancestral home feels like stepping into a living museum. Pottery horses of varying sizes and vibrant colors occupy every corner, each piece meticulously crafted and glazed. The horse, revered in ancient Chinese culture as a symbol of endurance, loyalty, and strength, serves as the central theme of their work.
“Our family has been making tangsancai horses for centuries,” says Zhang Li, the family’s youngest master craftsman. “But we don’t just replicate the past; we innovate. We experiment with new glazes and techniques while staying true to the essence of tangsancai.”
The traditional tangsancai technique involves applying three distinctive glazes—typically amber, green, and cream—to earthenware, creating a lustrous finish after kiln-firing. The Zhangs have expanded this palette, introducing new colors and modern designs that appeal to contemporary tastes without sacrificing the art’s authenticity.
The resurgence of interest in tangsancai has not only invigorated the Zhang family’s workshop but has also caught the attention of art collectors and cultural enthusiasts worldwide. Museums and galleries are showcasing their work, and the Zhangs are conducting workshops to educate others about this storied craft.
“It’s about more than just making ceramics,” Zhang Li explains. “It’s about keeping our culture alive and sharing it with the world. When people appreciate our tangsancai horses, they’re connecting with a piece of history.”
As the Zhang family continues to perfect the art of tangsancai horses, they stand as a testament to how tradition and innovation can coexist, ensuring that ancient crafts remain vibrant and relevant in today’s world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
