Silverware forging technique, an intangible cultural heritage inheritor

Mu Binglin

The iconic bronze screen wall of the Yunnan Silverware Museum was cast by him.

"Without the support of culture, even the most exquisite handicrafts are cold and lifeless." Mu Binglin firmly believes that the charm of traditional culture will surely bring surprises to those engaged in traditional handicrafts.

With this philosophy, Mu Binglin has honed his skills for over 30 years. In his life and practice, he enjoys creating unique things and constantly explores and refines the shapes, patterns, and techniques of artworks. He imbues cold metal sheets with "life," creating one work of art after another.

He handcrafted a traditional Bai ethnic bronze screen wall for Xinhua Village, measuring 12.8 meters wide, 8.6 meters high, and 0.8 meters thick, using 26.8 tons of copper. Mu Binglin said, "Many artisans thought I was crazy when I was making it; they thought such a handcrafted artwork was impossible to complete."

"But he completed it successfully, and later he also created a large round sculpture hot pot that is 2.2 meters high and 2.6 meters in diameter. These two works of art are the first of their kind in China in terms of size, exquisiteness and materials."

Mu Binglin showcases the unique Bai ethnic silverware culture with her ingenious techniques. Since beginning her career, Mu Binglin has developed many silver wine sets, tea sets, tableware, Buddhist supplies, and more, injecting fresh vitality into the ethnic folk gold, silver, and copper crafts industry and cultural industry.

Master Zhao Qingtao and Teacher Mu Binglin