Wushan Iron Calligraphy and Painting, one of the intangible cultural heritage elements of Hefei, Anhui province, will make its debut at the United Nations Headquarters later this year.

Wushan iron calligraphy

Deng Zhiyuan, one of the artists of the craft, was commissioned by the Ministry of Culture (MOC) of the People’s Republic of China to paint four pictures and write four calligraphic works. These works of art will grace the Hall of China at the UN Headquarters.

The pictures feature lotus flowers and four animals, symbolizing peace, harmony, and happiness through Chinese cultural symbols.

In addition, Deng will inscribe anvils with the Preface to the Orchid Pavilion Collection, the most famous work by "calligraphy saint" Wang Xizhi (AD 303-361).

The pictures have been finished, though the works of calligraphy are still under preparation, sources said. They will be sent to New York before next January.

Deng’s iron calligraphy made a strong impression on the MOC officials during the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

Wushan Iron Calligraphy and Painting is a traditional Chinese art form that blends the poetic imagery of Chinese ink-and-wash paintings with three-dimensional art effects. In this craft, artists make iron into pictures of high artistic value through the process of smelting, drilling and filing.

Editor: Li Jing

Source: cnanhui.org