Zaishi gourd carving is a folk art unique to Gaoqing county – administered by Zibo city in East China's Shandong province.
Using a knife or needle, the artist applies an incised carving onto the surface of gourd to reproduce a traditional Chinese depiction of a landscape, flowers, birds and figures – as well as calligraphy – and then outlines the carvings with ink.
Thanks to generations of highly skilled and innovative craftsmen, Zaishi gourd carving has found its own distinctive style. It features rich compositions, exquisite designs and depictions, skilled knife skills and smooth and elegant lines, as well as fresh and elegant coloring.
A selection of four striking gourds with different patterns. [Photo/WeChat ID: zibowenhualvyou]
A gourd carving humorously depicts an old man in repose and reading. [Photo/WeChat ID: zibowenhualvyou]
