An Outlet for Beijing Carved Lacquer

Should you want to find carved lacquer in Beijing, your best bet would probably be an outlet named Yuanyi.

Beijing carved lacquer originated in the Han Dynasty, and the technique reached its prime during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Its making method involves daubing dozens or even over hundred of layers of natural vermilion paint on a piece of article, and engraving patterns upon the hard surface when the paint gets dry. The resulting lacquer is wearproof, looks noble and elegant, and its color never fades.

The shop carries various carved lacquer items made in Guan County, in the Hebei Province. Each small pendant of the 12 symbolic animals associated with the 12-year Chinese year cycle costs RMB 5; prices for bracelets range from RMB 20 to RMB 150; necklaces from RMB 20 to RMB 200; vases from RMB 100 to RMB 3000.

What customers appreciate

Traditional Chinese works of art, exquisite workmanship, reasonable prices.