HONG KONG: In the hallway of the main store of Yue Hwa Chinese Products Emporium Ltd stand over 250 pieces of delicate sculpture created by eight masters of Shiwan pottery. The artisans hope that their Chinese traditional art soon will earn recognition around the world.

In pursuit of that hope they have brought their precious works to Hong Kong.

Here, in the corridors of the shop on Nathan Road, one discovers works based on classic themes: Chinese immortals, ancient ladies and civil society figures. There also are works with a contemporary influence. There's one representing New China's successive premiers. It represents a year's work by six masters.

Shiwan pottery is primitive. The technique defines a vivid imagery, rich in color and glazing. Shiwan pottery is distinctive for its delicately carved craftwork, said Pang Wenzhong, one of the masters, whose works are on display here. He created the sculpture of the former premier Zhu Rongji, among others. "The local clay of Shiwan is very close to human skin, especially suitable for portrait sculpture," he said.

Shiwan pottery established its distinctive style during the Song Dynasty (960-1279). The art form achieved its heyday during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties, Pang said.

Yue Hwa promotes Chinese arts and crafts in Hong Kong. Exhibitions based on various themes are held once a year. "We brought all the craftworks from Shiwan and invited the masters to come to Hong Kong," said Tsang Lai-ying, senior manager of Yue Hwa Chinese Products Emporium.

Visitors seemed captivated by the unusual works. One visitor, Chan Wing-chan, said he was drawn by a large mini-sculpture of 18 Chinese immortals. "Even the small leaves and grass are very delicate," Chan said.

He was eager to learn about the production process from the artist, Huo Peiying. "I spent a lot of time doing the research, study every immortal's movement,"she told him.

"Holding an exhibition in Hong Kong is a good opportunity for Shiwan to reach out to the world," said Wang Hui, deputy chief of Economic Affairs Department of the Central Government's Liaison Office in Hong Kong.

The works on display are undeniably beautiful. The craftsmen believe that as more and more people are exposed to the art, it will become more popular. They believe that Hong Kong's standing as one of Asia's most cosmopolitan cities makes the city an ideal place to introduce Shiwan pottery to the international community.

(HK Edition 11/12/2009 page1)