(Ecns.cn)--Shen Shide, a famous master of porcelain carving in Suiyang, Shangqiu of central China's Henan Province, says his craft may be close to dying out. That's because young people are reluctant to learn the art of porcelain carving, which demands much time and effort to finish even a simple piece.
Dating back to the early Qing Dynasty (1644–1911), porcelain carving is the technique of sculpting the surface of finished chinaware. Craftsmen must demonstrate proficiency in painting and calligraphy as well as great patience, since porcelain is far more fragile than marble.
When he attended a national symposium on porcelain carving in 1991, Shen was astonished to find that he was the only master in China of this fading art. Media coverage brought him some apprentices, but so far none of them has acquired expertise.
"It is hard to tell if there will be anyone left to continue porcelain carving," says Shen.
Shen used to count on his son to carry on his career and pass on the craft, but his son chose to be a civil servant and showed little interest in porcelain carving.
"If my son abandons it, porcelain carving is likely to disappear when I am too old," says Shen.
