As Lunar New Year approaches in 2026, Chinese artisans are reviving ancient techniques to celebrate the Year of the Horse. A newly unveiled Sancai glazed pottery creation – the iconic tri-colored ceramic tradition dating back to the Tang Dynasty – has captured global attention through a mesmerizing 30-second timelapse showing master craftsman Guo Jiaqi transforming raw clay into a dynamic equine form.
The Beijing-based artist's process reveals meticulous coil-building methods passed down through generations, combined with modern kiln technologies that preserve the distinctive amber, green, and cream glazes. "Each Sancai horse carries 1,300 years of cultural memory," Guo noted during the unveiling ceremony last week.
Cultural institutions have launched an #AllThingsHorses creative challenge inviting global participation until February 14. Submissions ranging from digital art to textile designs will be featured in a virtual exhibition coinciding with Lunar New Year festivities. Previous winners have seen their work displayed in Shanghai's Museum of Glass Art and Singapore's Asian Civilisations Museum.
