Fujian man keeps traditional stove craft alive for future generations
When reporters visited Wanmei village in Yongding district, Longyan of Fujian province, villager Tong Zhaozhang and his family were engaged in the handmade production of traditional fubang stoves.
The stoves are the intangible cultural heritage of Longyan and embody the cultural identity of the Hakka people. They are typically used for boiling water and brewing medicine. In the 20th century, they were exported to Southeast Asian countries.
Due to a sluggish market, the stove once faced the dilemma of having no one to inherit its craftsmanship. With the development of the local tourism industry, it regained attention. Seven years ago, Tong returned to his hometown, aiming to pass down this distinctive craft.
"I can't let our old craftsmanship end in our generation. I want to do something more," Tong said.
The process of making a fubang stove is intricate, involving dozens of steps. The resulting clay stoves are aesthetically pleasing and durable, Tong told reporters.
Tong insists on employing purely handmade techniques. He has also incorporated cultural and creative elements, and offered customized services to breathe new life into the traditional craftsmanship.
In recent years, local governments have seized the opportunity for the development of the fubang stove industry. They have diversified marketing methods, making the intangible cultural heritage skill a driver for rural vitalization.
"We will further promote the innovative development of intangible cultural heritage resources, allowing heritage products to radiate enduring vitality," said Liu Xinfang, Party secretary of Chengjiao town, where the village locates.
Yang Zishuo contributed to this story.
