Zhugendiao
01 · Historical Records
Xiangshan bamboo root carving has a long history, and the earliest surviving work known today was made during the Jiaqing reign of the Qing dynasty.
02 · Core Techniques & Process
Xiangshan bamboo root carving is a traditional handicraft in which the roots of moso bamboo and their natural forms and grain are used, through artistic conception, to carve lively shapes of all kinds; it is transmitted mainly in Xiangshan County, Ningbo City, Zhejiang Province, and the surrounding areas. Working from the shape and grain of each bamboo root, folk artisans absorb and draw on the essence of such traditional Chinese arts as calligraphy and painting, sculpture, wood carving, and stone carving. They carve according to the form and exercise their skill according to the material, organically and ingeniously combining natural beauty with crafted beauty to produce vivid Xiangshan bamboo root carvings; with a few economical knife strokes they produce endless charm, capturing the appeal of returning to simplicity and authenticity. The production process of Xiangshan bamboo root carving is complex, comprising more than ten process steps, including material selection, conception, and carving. The main techniques include round carving, openwork carving, freehand (xieyi) carving, and composite carving. The subjects of Xiangshan bamboo root carving are wide-ranging, including figures and landscapes, historical legends, and historical stories; its artistic individuality is distinct, and it is rich in the connotations of maritime culture. Representative works include "Thatched Hut, Autumn Wind", "Dotting the Eyes", and "Fortune and Honor in Full Bloom". Xiangshan is an important producing area in the field of Chinese root art. With its long history and rich traditional cultural connotations, it provides precious material for studying the development of root carving in China. At the same time, it raises the incomes of both bamboo farmers and folk artisans, contributing to local economic, social, and cultural development.
Archival Record of Craft Steps
The production process of Xiangshan bamboo root carving is complex, comprising more than ten process steps such as material selection, conception, and carving.
03 · Regional Records & Related Items
Its works combine practical use with aesthetic appeal in a unique style, falling into two categories: pure appreciation pieces, and pieces that are both practical and meant for appreciation.
04 · Cultural Value & Contemporary Safeguarding
It comes in a wide variety of types. In earlier times brush pots and figurine ornaments predominated; in recent years the range has continually expanded to include ornaments, brush pots, and wall hangings, with sizes ranging from a mere inch to several feet. Xiangshan bamboo root carving is transmitted mainly through the master-apprentice system, and has been passed down for six generations to date. The government attaches great importance to its protection and transmission, and has adopted multiple measures: establishing professional institutions to organically combine government administration with industry self-discipline; strengthening the workforce, encouraging participation by colleges and universities, and actively cultivating talent; encouraging the creation of fine works, promoting industrialization, and exploring new paths for the integration of culture and tourism; and supporting exhibitions and exchange activities to expand its influence. At present the transmission of Xiangshan bamboo root carving is in good condition: a talent ladder combining old, middle-aged, and young artisans has taken shape around the representative inheritors, who actively teach apprentices and continually explore innovative techniques. It has simple and natural aesthetic qualities and an elegant, enduring value for artistic appreciation. Using discarded bamboo roots as raw material, it embodies the concept of turning waste into treasure and a positive awareness of ecological conservation, in line with the value orientation of sustainable and healthy development.
05 · Associated Representative Bearers
Representative bearers recorded under this item, organized by national nomination batch:
06 · Authoritative Sources & Bibliography
Sources
China Intangible Cultural Heritage Network (ihchina.cn)
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