Craft Universe on Small Gourds with Mastery of Gourd Pyrography in Yinan, Shandong

LINYI, China, Mar. 27, 2025 /Xinhua-AsiaNet/–

In Chinese culture, gourds (hulu) symbolize blessings and prosperity, as their name is phonetically similar to fulu. Traditionally, gourds are believed to ward off evil, promote health and longevity, and bring peace and good fortune.

 

Gourd pyrography is a refined traditional art form. Using a heated iron as a brush, artisans etch intricate designs onto the gourd’s surface, blending the natural texture of the gourd with the artistry of pyrography. The resulting pieces are not only visually captivating but also hold enduring artistic and collectible value.

 

Nestled in Xingshanyu Village, Zhangzhuang Town, Yinan County, Linyi City, Shandong Province, 70-year-old Yin Chuanming is a master artisan renowned for his exceptional skill in this ancient craft. Upon entering his courtyard, visitors are immediately struck by the neatly arranged rows of pyrography gourds, each displaying exquisite patterns and a variety of graceful forms.

 

Inside his modest workshop, a simple setup consisting of a table, a chair, an electric pyrography pen, and a box of pigments serves as the stage for Yin’s meticulous artistry. Holding the gourd in one hand and the pyrography pen in the other, he works with unwavering focus, delicately engraving lifelike images onto the surface. Within moments, a vibrant peony, rich with detail, emerges from the gourd.

 

“The process begins with envisioning a design that complements the shape of the gourd. I then sketch the outline with a pencil before carefully using the pyrography pen to refine the lines and add intricate details,” Yin explained. He emphasized that gourd pyrography demands exceptional patience and precise coordination between hand, eye, and mind, and a single slip can undo hours of painstaking effort.

 

Yin Chuanming’s pyrography gourds are celebrated for remarkable artistry, featuring intricate carvings and lifelike depictions. Drawing inspiration from classic Chinese motifs such as “prosperity in full bloom,” “great fortune on the horizon,” and “pine and crane for longevity,” Yin has created a vast array of works imbued with auspicious symbolism and profound cultural meaning. His creations have been deeply loved by the general public.

 

Source: Yinan County People’s Government