Pottery sculpture and martial art are the first impression of Foshan to many people. Guo Moruo, a famous poet, ever described Foshan pottery sculpture as ------ “wonderful craftsmanship excels nature with highly skilled hands. Shiwan deserves to be the harbor of excellent pottery”. 

Trace of history

As the traditional pottery making skills in folk of Han nationality, the history of Foshan pottery sculpture can be traced back to the late Neolithic Age. Its artistic embryonic form can be seen from the pottery sculpture excavated in the tomb of Eastern Han Dynasty. Generally speaking, the development of Foshan pottery sculpture is roughly divided into four periods: forming and developing period before Tang and Ming dynasties; prosperous period during Ming and Qing dynasties; trough period during the Republican period; the heyday and innovative period after the founding of the Peoples Republic of China, especially after the reform and opening up.

Artistic characteristics

As folk kiln, Foshan pottery sculpture is oriented to the general public. Therefore, pottery sculpture art is based on the principle of practicality. It combines artistry and practicality with local cultural characteristics. The Skills of Foshan pottery sculpture are rich. Products are of distinct features and vivid shapes. Thick wall and thick enamel layer endow it with the feeling of classic elegance and decorousness.

Inheritance and development

Currently, the development of Foshan pottery sculpture is facing the dilemma of no successors. In order to protect such traditional skill, Foshan pottery sculpture art was listed into the first batch of national non-material cultural heritage in 2006 upon the approval from the State Council. In 2007, Liu Zemian became the representative successor of such cultural heritage project after confirmed by Ministry of Culture of the State.

To revitalize such time-honored traditional technique, reform is required. The popular and fashionable elements of modern society shall be blended into traditional technique, making it more conformable with the public esthetic sense and taste of nowadays society.