Silverware forging technique, an intangible cultural heritage inheritor

Wang Kairong

Silverware craftsmanship is not uncommon in Yunnan, but each family has its own story of inheriting silverware traditions.

The enamel silver making technique in Wangqing Village has been passed down through generations. From the time Wang Kairong could remember, his elders would tempt him with candy to work the bellows, which enabled him to master the art of enamel painting by the age of nine. For forty years, he has tirelessly pursued his craft, driving the Wangqing silver industry chain and becoming a representative figure in the silver forging of ethnic minorities in Yunnan.

The silver-making techniques of Wangqing Village in Xiangyun County are exquisite and have a long history. The ornaments are mainly used for women's adornment and come in a wide variety. They are divided into headdresses, face ornaments, necklaces, chest ornaments, anklets, and bracelets, which complement each other to create a perfect overall decorative effect.

They likened the melodious, tinkling sounds made when they danced in silver costumes to "Wang Qing" (汪情).

Master Zhao Qingtao and Teacher Wang Kairong