Luminous Brilliance: The Artistry of Zibo Glass captivated visitors at the National Museum of China from June 10 to October 8. The exhibition highlighted both the ancient traditions and modern evolution of this exquisite art form. Its immense popularity led to a two-month extension, moving the closing date from August to October.
Structured in three parts, the display guided audiences through the history of ancient glassmaking. Visitors marveled at masterpieces crafted through thermal-forming techniques, alongside delicate cold-worked pieces featuring inner painting and carving.
This artistic tradition hails from Zibo City, Shandong Province, the celebrated "liuli (colored glaze glass) capital of China." The city's primacy in glassmaking is rooted in history, with archaeological evidence identifying it as the home of the earliest liuli furnace in China.
(Text and photos by Wei Yao)
