Some of China’s most famous art goes miniature when the artists that produce these exquisite pieces decide to paint a new design. Using photos of the originals, the artists painstakingly recreate the image in layers of colour.
The delicate work is created on the inside, often using small, specially designed brushes to navigate the narrow entry neck of the bottles. Evidence of their efforts can sometimes be seen with small drag marks left on the glass.
These small decorative items are the combination of many parts of Chinese life and history. The small bottles are a relic of the opium trade and the designs are historically symbolic. Cranes with Pine is highly symbolic in Chinese folk law. The evergreen pine tree lives a long life and the cranes are symbolic of new live. Scenes and symbolism such as these make up the majority of themes. .
Artists often start to learn at a young age, developing the fine hand skills necessary to become masters of the art as adults. An artist will focus on a few special designs rather than producing a great range. For this reason, they often work in cooperatives. .
The art form is prolific in China, while very little is sold as export. We are proud to be able to present this small range. The simpler designs make a great gift, while many of the more complex pieces make great collections and will ,over time, become great investments. .
More than just a gift, a work of art.