The Jinling School of bamboo carving was founded by Qi Zhongqian, a master artisan who lived during the late Ming Dynasty. Born in 1582 during the Wanli era, he was active from the Wanli to Chongzhen periods. His work is characterized by a unique style that emphasizes natural forms and minimalistic carving. Unlike the more intricate and deep-relief techniques of the Jiading School, Qi preferred to work with the natural shape of bamboo roots, using a simple knife to create delicate, shallow reliefs that blend seamlessly with the material.
Qi's approach was both artistic and intuitive. He would often take advantage of the natural curves and textures of bamboo roots, transforming them into elegant objects without overworking the material. This method, known as "water mill" technique, involved subtle incisions that gave the pieces a soft, lifelike appearance. His works were not only functional but also highly decorative, appearing on items such as fans, pens, and small accessories, which were greatly admired by scholars and collectors of the time.
According to the Qing scholar Song Yutang, Qi Zhongqian was a versatile artist with extraordinary skill. His bamboo carvings stood out for their originality and natural beauty, setting him apart from his contemporaries. The Jinling School, named after the city of Nanjing where he worked, became one of the most influential schools of bamboo carving in Chinese history.
Other notable artists from the Jinling School include Fang Jie, Zhi Moiping, and others from Zhejiang’s Huangyan region. Fang Jie, for instance, was particularly renowned for his bamboo arm rests and portraits carved in the Yang Wen shallow relief style. His work combined precision and artistry, making his pieces highly sought after. The term “square bamboo†was used to describe the distinct style of the Jinling School, emphasizing clarity and structure.
One of Qi Zhongqian’s representative works is a pen holder made from a straight bamboo stem, with a shallow relief design that showcases his mastery of form and detail. Another piece features a pot carved from a bamboo root, shaped like a pine tree. The trunk becomes the body of the pot, while the branches are transformed into handles and the lid is shaped like pine needles and leaves. Hidden beneath the handle is an engraved signature in regular script, reading “Zhong Qian.â€
Another piece, an arm rest, depicts a mountain landscape with flowing streams, ancient huts, and layered compositions. Inscribed with the date “Bing of the Year of the Clan,†it bears the seal “Fang,†indicating its origin and authenticity. These works reflect the deep cultural and artistic heritage of the Jinling School, which continues to inspire modern artisans and collectors alike.
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