The Jinling School of bamboo carving was founded by Qi Zhongqian, who was also known as Qi Cheng. Born in 1582 during the Wanli era of the Ming Dynasty, Qi was active from the late Wanli period through the Chongzhen era. His work often featured bas-relief carvings, though he occasionally used high-relief techniques as well. However, his true passion lay in working with bamboo roots, shaping them according to their natural forms and textures. With a simple knife, he would make subtle, delicate carvings that enhanced the natural beauty of the material, transforming it into functional and artistic objects.
The early Qing scholar Song Yutang praised Qi Zhongqian in "The Record of Zhu Zhongtang," highlighting his exceptional skill and unique style in bamboo carving. One of his signature techniques was the shallow-knife relief, which some referred to as the "water mill" method. This technique was widely used on items such as fans, glassware, and pen holders, as well as on wood and ivory. These works were highly appreciated for their elegance and craftsmanship.
Due to its distinct style, different from the Jiading School's "high, deep, and transparent" approach, the Jinling School became recognized as a separate school of bamboo carving. Qi Zhongqian is considered the founder of this tradition. Other notable artists from the Jinling School included Fang Jie, Zi Moiping, and Zhi Zhizhi from Huangyan, Zhejiang. These artists were known for their excellent calligraphy, painting, and especially their bamboo carving skills, earning them the title of "square bamboo" masters.
Fang Jie, for instance, was particularly skilled in creating bamboo armrests and using the Yang Wen shallow relief technique to carve portraits. He would use a shallow relief for facial features and a more incised method for the rest of the design, achieving a balanced and refined aesthetic. His work was renowned for its delicacy and precision.
One of the most remarkable pieces from this tradition is a bamboo root vessel shaped like a pine tree. The trunk serves as the main body, while the branches are coiled into handles. The lid is carved into pine branches and leaves, seamlessly integrated with the pot’s structure. A hidden inscription beneath the handle reads "Zhong Qian" in regular script, adding an extra layer of artistry.
Another example is a pen holder created by Qi Zhongqian. It features a straight barrel with a shallow-relief bamboo pattern on the outer wall. The craftsmanship is exquisite, showcasing his mastery of form and detail.
A bamboo armrest depicts a mountain landscape with flowing streams and ancient huts, layered with rich composition. In the upper left corner, there is an inscription dated "Bing of the Year of the Clan," and a seal marked "Fang" completes the piece. This artwork exemplifies the depth and sophistication of the Jinling School's artistic expression.
Nylon Yarn,Nylon Bonded Sewing Thread,Nylon Thread Bondeado,Lightweight Material
Xuzhou Seagor Import And Export Co., Ltd. , https://www.seagoryarn.com