Gaomi Heitao Pottery: Precious cultural heritage of China

The Gaomi Heitao Pottery firing technique is a precious intangible cultural heritage item originating in Gaomi, Weifang from local earthenware in the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911).

The Gaomi Heitao Pottery firing technique is an intangible cultural heritage item originating in Gaomi, East China's Shandong province. [Photo by Wang Honglei & Shan Wei for chinadaily.com.cn]

With a history of hundreds of years, this type of pottery is made of Yellow River silt, giving it a delicate and glossy finish. With nearly 200 shapes developed, including antique bottles, cups, vessels, and more, the Longshan culture's eggshell pottery stands out for its exceptional thinness and lightness.

Liu Cunzhi, the inheritor of the Gaomi Heitao Pottery firing technique. [Photo by Wang Honglei & Shan Wei for chinadaily.com.cn]

Liu Cunzhi, the inheritor of the technique, highlights the cultural significance and artistic value of Gaomi Heitao Pottery. In recent years, efforts have deepened integration with cultural tourism, promoting the industry's development. By combining workshops, training, and rural involvement, Heitao Pottery making techniques are being passed down, contributing to the preservation of intangible cultural heritage and rural vitalization.

Moreover, Gaomi has created economic opportunities, with many young people successfully starting businesses after learning these firing techniques. As a result, local labor has benefited from increased employment opportunities, demonstrating the positive impact of preserving and promoting traditional craftsmanship in the modern era. (Edited by He Yuge)