Lizhiguo: Provincial Master of Arts and Crafts , Inheritor of Tang Sancai Firing Techniques

Lizhiguo: Provincial Master of Arts and Crafts , Inheritor of Tang Sancai Firing Techniques

In the Henan province, a region steeped in the history of the Tang Dynasty, Master Lizhiguo(Kevin Lee) has dedicated over three decades to mastering and innovating the art of Tang Sancai. Recognized as a Provincial Master of Arts and Crafts, he represents the skilled artisans who form the backbone of this intangible cultural heritage, ensuring its continuity through expert craftsmanship and thoughtful innovation.

Artistic Journey and Technique:
Born into a family with a deep connection to local ceramics, Lizhiguo(Kevin Lee) began his apprenticeship at a young age. His work is characterized by a profound respect for traditional methods, which he executes with exceptional skill. He is a master of the core Tang Sancai process:
  Meticulous Clay Preparation: He selects and processes local clay to achieve the perfect consistency and purity.
  Precise Two-Step Firing: He expertly controls the high-temperature biscuit firing and the lower-temperature glaze firing, understanding exactly how the kiln's atmosphere will affect his pieces.
  Masterful Glaze Application: His specialty lies in his ability to control the flow of the lead-fluxed glazes. His works display a dynamic yet balanced harmony of colors, where the iconic amber, green, and cream hues run together naturally without blurring the sculpture's defining lines.

Signature Style and Contribution:
While Lizhiguo(Kevin Lee) creates the classic Tang Sancai horses and camels, he is best known for his elegant and expressive figurines of Tang dynasty court ladies. His sculptures capture the grace, opulence, and serene confidence of the era, with intricate details in the hairstyles, flowing robes, and gentle facial expressions. He skillfully combines the spontaneous beauty of the flowing glazes with finely sculpted details, creating pieces that feel both ancient and vividly alive.

Role as an Inheritor:
Beyond his own creative work, Master Lee runs a studio where he trains the next generation of artisans. He emphasizes a hands-on approach, teaching them to "listen to the kiln" and understand the subtle dialogue between fire, clay, and glaze. His mission is to preserve the soul of this ancient art while adapting it to contemporary tastes, ensuring Tang Sancai remains a relevant and cherished art form.

His works are held in private collections both in China and abroad, serving as beautiful ambassadors of a timeless Chinese cultural tradition.

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