K11 Craft & Guild Foundation

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Baibaoqian

Baibaoqian, literally meaning “hundred-treasures inlay” in Chinese, refers to the intricate inlay work comprised of variegated semi-precious materials, such as jade, agate and pearls, on premium hardwood or on lacquer ware.

Landscapes, figures, birds and flowers are common themes found in baibaoqian works in the Ming and Qing dynasties.

The inlay art thrived in China throughout the late period of the Ming dynasty (1368-1644) and Qing dynasty (1644-1912) and is found on almost all types of furniture and furnishings. In 2017, the baibaoqian technique was listed as a provincial intangible cultural heritage item in China.

The application of the luxurious inlay to objects was once a class marker of the Chinese elite and commanded a high value. Each inlay component is carefully and skilfully carved separately in relief before the pieces are assembled together to make up a pictorial image that usually expresses an auspicious theme.

Baibaoqian is a demanding craft that requires precision and skill. Due to the great variety of materials—agates, turquoise, nephrite, seashells, mother-of-pearl, pearls, coral, amber, ivory, tortoise shells, wood, gold and silver— being used, artisans need to possess a full arsenal of skills, as well as a strong aesthetic sense for the overall inlay composition.

Production is thus mainly a coordinated effort conducted in workshops, where a master specialising in the art of composition leads a group of specialised craftsmen.

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