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Shop For Unique Chinese Lacquer Ware In Beijing

By: Andy Lao.

In China, lacquer is considered one of the best materials for decorating household items. As early as 7,000 years ago, Chinese people began producing lacquer ware. Throughout China's history, lacquer ware was used to decorate homes and symbolize status. When shopping in Beijing, don't forget to find some exquisite Chinese lacquer ware in the amazing local shops of the city.
Starting in the Warring States Period, the use of lacquer ware gradually replaced the use of bronze vessels in many areas of China. In the 6th century, Chinese lacquer-making techniques were introduced to Japan. The lacquer ware industry started to flourish. In the Qing dynasty, Chinese lacquer items were exported to Europe in large numbers.
The quality of lacquer ware is superb, and it is not unusual to see a lacquer item made hundreds of years ago still retain its original form and beauty. Take a tour to the major museums in Beijing, and you will discover many exquisite lacquer ware products used by ancient Chinese emperors that still retain their great color.
The best qualities of lacquer ware is sometimes referred to as the "four resists." It resists moisture, heat, acid, and corrosion, the four biggest potential hazards associated with the preservation of any household item. The unique material used to make it and the traditional techniques applied give it these great qualities.
A lacquer ware item is as substantial and firm as it is lightweight. For art collectors, it's literally a gift of two wonderful attributes that normally don't go together. This unique strength lacquer ware has comes from the numerous layers of lacquer that are applied on the body. Even though its appealing surface looks delicate, it is very easy to wash and clean.
Nowadays there are lacquer ware factories in China that produce works even more beautiful than the famous antiques. Local flair characterizes the work produced in the different cities. Beijing remains a major manufacturer, and the products it makes are known for their special multi-layer design and noble red color.
A number of styles of lacquer ware are famous for their unique characteristics, they include: the elegant mother-of-pearl lacquer ware produced in Yangzhou, Jiangsu province, the especially durable lacquer ware from Fujian province, and the lacquer ware produced in Sichuan, Shanxi, Guizhou, Gansu, Jiangxi, and Shaanxi province.
Here is a list of the 14 major styles of Chinese lacquer ware:
1. Single-color ware
2. Clear-top-coat ware
3. Lacquer-painted
4. Gilt ware
5. Lacquer-embossed
6. Lacquer-filled
7. Gold-filled
8. Lacquer-gold-filled
9. Mother-of-pearl ware
10. Carved ware
11. Rhinoceros-leather
12. Carved Multi-color ware
13. Multi-jewel ware
14. Bodiless ware
An exquisite piece of lacquer ware will make any room look fantastic. With its gorgeous design, unique carvings, and elegant color, it can transform a plain-looking, unimpressive corner of a room into a beautiful space with a sense of high-class and mystery.
Shop for authentic lacquer ware only in shops with well-established reputations. Beware, because there are many fake items and bad imitations in the market nowadays. First-time visitors in Beijing are especially vulnerable to being ripped-off by street vendors and dishonest gift shops. You can find a personal shopper to help you get to the best shops with true lacquer ware items.

Article Source: http://www.articlefinder.org

A. Lao has written about Chinese culture and history for years. He now works with a Beijing personal shopper who brings visitors to great Chinese shops. Sometimes he personally tailors personal shopping trips.

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