In recent years, there has been a growing trend among young people to learn and master the art of filigree inlay. This ancient decorative technique involves the delicate placement of intricate metal threads or wires onto a metal base to create a stunningly intricate design. Once a highly valued skill among artisans, filigree inlay fell out of fashion as modern manufacturing techniques took over. However, in the age of DIY and the resurgence of interest in traditional crafts, filigree inlay is experiencing a revival. Let's take a closer look at this beautiful art form and why it's attracting a new generation of makers.
The production of filigree inlay can be traced back to the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period, with its fine and exquisite craftsmanship, can be regarded as a high class custom-made piece of classical jewelry. It was the exclusive preserve of the court nobility in ancient China. This traditional craft, however, is beginning to be loved and passed on by a younger generation of craftsmen.
Gu Guoqiang, a young man from Chongqing, loves classical brush painting and everything about traditional culture. In college, he studied ceramics, and he was involved in the restoration of cultural relics in the Forbidden City by chance. The first time he saw an ancient headdress made with filigree inlay, Gu was greatly impressed. Although it was a remnant, he felt that filigree inlay gave a piece of work a soul and could convey the classical flavor very directly, and he was determined to master the skill of filigree inlay and create works comparable to cultural relics.
He studied under Chongqing provincial master craftsman Li Changyi and learned from the very basics of the craft. It is not easy to inherit a traditional craft, not to mention that filigree inlay requires patience, care, and experience. Gu once spent an all-nighter on soldering earrings and doubted his own hands-on ability. The process of making often requires repeating the same actions and staying seated for long periods of time, a tedious life that took him three years. Finally, Gu was able to start creating filigree inlay works and opened an independent studio with his own team.
Young people's perception of traditional craftsmanship always carries the characteristics of this era, and Gu's filigree inlay works are beginning to explore more modern and everyday possibilities. He believes that moving from work to product is the most convenient way to make more people aware of the filigree inlay. It is gratifying to see that more and more young people are expressing their love for the filigree mosaic. In Gu's studio, the post-90s and post-00s make up the mainstream, and in addition to feeling the beauty of filigree mosaic, they also feel the joy through the practice of the craft.
Young people's perception of traditional craftsmanship always carries the characteristics of this era, and Gu's filigree inlay works are beginning to explore more modern and everyday possibilities. He believes that moving from work to product is the most convenient way to make more people aware of the filigree inlay. It is gratifying to see that more and more young people are expressing their love for the filigree mosaic. In Gu's studio, the post-90s and post-00s make up the mainstream, and in addition to feeling the beauty of filigree mosaic, they also feel the joy through the practice of the craft.
In conclusion, the art of filigree inlay is being kept alive by young people who are passionate about preserving their cultural heritage. Despite the challenges of learning this intricate craft, they are determined to continue the legacy of their ancestors and to share their knowledge with future generations. Through their innovation and ingenuity, they have not only expanded the scope of Filigree Inlay but have also helped to ensure that this time-honored tradition endures for generations to come. As we look towards the future, it is clear that the future of Filigree Inlay is in good hands with the next generation of artisans at the helm.
