Among China’s traditional crafts, nut carving stands out with its exquisite miniature carving artistry. Transforming ordinary peach and apricot pits into delicate artworks, this craft is listed as a national intangible cultural heritage.
Yang Xu, a post-80s inheritor from Chaoyang City, Liaoning Province, has mastered the art to perfection after years of dedication. On a pit’s surface no larger than a coin, his chisel brings to life vivid figures—from expressive facial details to fluttering garment folds and even individual strands of hair. These miniature masterpieces not only carry forward centuries of craftsmanship, but also showcase to the world Chinese artistry that constantly strives for perfection.