In the heart of the Chinese mainland, master jade carver Tang Shuai continues to redefine artistic excellence through his extraordinary craftsmanship. At 68, Tang has spent five decades transforming raw nephrite into intricate sculptures that embody China's cultural heritage while attracting global collectors and art historians alike.
Recent exhibitions in Beijing and Shanghai have showcased Tang's latest collection, blending traditional motifs with contemporary interpretations. His workshop in Suzhou, where he mentors twelve apprentices, has become a pilgrimage site for art enthusiasts seeking to understand this 8,000-year-old artistic tradition.
"Jade isn't merely stone – it's the soul of Chinese civilization," Tang remarked during a rare interview. His current projects include a monumental piece commissioned for the 2026 Asian Cultural Heritage Summit, demonstrating jade carving's enduring relevance in modern China.
The resurgence of interest in traditional crafts has positioned Tang's work at the intersection of cultural preservation and economic opportunity. Auction houses report growing international demand for premium jade artworks, with Tang's pieces consistently breaking sales records in Hong Kong and New York.
