What will happen when a high-temperature soldering iron meets a delicate Xuan paper (a type of Chinese art paper)? Maxim from Russia, along with the host Scarlett from LICC, is on a mission to unveil the mystery of this “fusion of paper and fire”–pyrography.
The art of pyrography dates back to the Western Han Dynasty, flourishing during the Eastern Han Dynasty, and boasts a history of over 2000 years. Using a high-temperature iron as a unique “paintbrush”, it draws a myriad of patterns on materials like wood, bamboo, willow, and paper, creating pictures full of life and interest. Pyrography is also known as “fire painting,” and pyrography on Xuan paper is like micro-carving on a piece of thin paper.
The master who led us to enjoy the “art of fire” is Li Ruiqun, a Liaoning provincial-level representative inheritor of the Chinese intangible cultural heritage project of pyrography. His fiery iron pen “dances” lightly on the Xuan paper, like a Chinese dragon or snake at 800 degrees Celsius, with trails of white smoke rising from the surface. In an instant, two lifelike black shrimps seem to “swim” on the paper, leaving Maxim and Scarlett in awe.
Under Master Li’s guidance, Scarlett and Maxim delved into the profound heritage of pyrography and couldn’t wait to give it a try themselves. They decided to challenge the creation of the Chinese mythological character “Fire Child” Ne Zha. The process of making pyrography was much more complicated than expected, with Maxim carefully wielding the iron on the Xuan paper, meticulously drawing the lines. Every stroke and every heat application was a deep diving into traditional Chinese craftsmanship. After relentless efforts, their first pyrograph works were finally revealed, with Ne Zha’s image full of fighting spirit becoming more vivid under the “fire” technique instead of ink.
After the lively and interesting experience, Maxim was deeply touched by the “scorching hot” art of pyrography. He has realized that he should be persistent in what he loves, and pursue and achieve it with fiery passion. The intangible cultural heritage of Liaoning is truly exhilarating and stirs the heart!
