Porcelain for posterity

Lyu says that these factories, which operate today, have not only decoded the secrets of porcelain-making but have also created modern works, especially Chinese-style dinnerware that are used as state gifts and at state feasts.

The exhibition also features tableware, which was used at the G20 summit held in Hangzhou in 2016 and at the Belt and Road forum in Beijing in May.

The tableware was designed and manufactured in Zhejiang province－where the Longquan kilns and the Ge kilns were located－and in Shenzhen.

Zhang Shouzhi, a retired professor of Tsinghua University who specializes in porcelain technique, says that to rebuild China's reputation in porcelain, Chinese companies have to study classic Chinese motifs and shapes.

The 85-year-old veteran, who has designed ceramic sets used for state ceremonies since the 1950s, says: "The main thing for a ceramic artist is to love life. For example, Longquan boasts picturesque scenery and people turned their love for the landscapes into Longquan green-glazed porcelain."

Contact the writer at linqi@chinadaily.com.cn

If you go

9 am-5 pm, through July 30. 16 East Chang'an Avenue, Dongcheng district, Beijing. 010-6511-6400.