The Story of Peony Ceramics
Peony Ceramics is created with the intent to nurture the soul, paying tribute to modern living through the timeless artistry of traditional ceramics. Every piece is an invitation to connect with craftsmanship, history, and the simple joys of life.
Peony Ceramics is not just a craft; it is a spirit of relentless pursuit of excellence. Since the Tang Dynasty, our ceramics have been renowned worldwide for their intricate craftsmanship (such as Tang Sancai) and auspicious meanings (wealth, fortune, and the blooming of prosperity).
40 years ago, my father founded Peony Ceramics. In the early days, he set up a simple workshop in our home. To produce the best products, he was extremely selective about the materials he used. Regardless of the season—whether it was the scorching summer heat or the bitter winter cold—he would tirelessly travel to the mines to find the finest clay. When he came back covered in dust, yet smiling with satisfaction, I knew he had found the perfect material. This is one of my earliest and most cherished memories of my father.
As the economy developed, people’s demand for spiritual fulfillment grew. To meet this demand, my father decided to replicate classic ceramic works. He traveled across the region, gathering materials and eventually, under the guidance of the Tiangong Kaiwu (the Book of Heavenly Craft), successfully recreated ceramic cups based on the Song Dynasty style. These pieces received high praise in the market. His success was not only due to his detailed research and countless trials but also to factors such as specific regional climates, water quality, and trace elements in the environment.
In 2005, when my father retired, I could sense his reluctance to leave his workshop. However, at that time, I had no intention of continuing his work, nor had I ever considered pursuing a career in ceramics. My father never pressured me to follow in his footsteps, giving me the freedom to choose my own path.
In 2012, by chance, I shared some of my father’s handmade ceramic works on an online forum. To my surprise, they received widespread attention and praise, particularly for their craftsmanship. This reaction touched me deeply. Although the modern world is filled with mass-produced, affordable, and diverse industrial goods, I soon realized that people were yearning for pure, handmade, customized, and personalized ceramics—products that fulfill a growing cultural need.
After careful consideration, I decided to revive the traditional ceramic craft. I consulted with old artisans and discovered talented young artists. I offered them support through fair compensation and worked to integrate high-quality resources. This led to the creation of Peony Ceramics and the launch of our online store. As the business grew, I realized that such exceptional products deserved to be seen and enjoyed by a wider audience. So, I broke free from platform constraints and established the independent Peony Ceramics website. Through this, I aim to bring you high-quality works at competitive prices and share the unique charm of traditional craftsmanship with the world. I hope you enjoy the experience and appreciate the blend of history and artistry in every piece.
Peony Ceramics – Tradition and Innovation, Focusing on Every Detail
As an artist who has dedicated years to the ceramic field, my studio is not just about managing daily affairs; it’s about creating every piece of work with passion and care. From material selection to crafting, every step is completed solely by me, because only by doing it myself can I truly express my artistic intent.
Why do I insist on doing everything myself?
- Only I can truly express my vision.
Every piece of my work can only be fully realized if I personally complete the process. Take wheel-throwing, for example. The technique and pressure applied in shaping the clay are crucial and must align with the specific requirements of the finished piece. While an experienced master could throw the clay, their habitual methods developed over years might not align with my artistic vision. The subtle differences in technique and force can make a huge difference. This is why I insist on doing everything myself. - I only use premium, traditional materials.
I am committed to using clay sourced from the old factory district. While modern mining operations have ceased, the old factory still holds a stock of materials that are unmatched in quality. Though these materials are expensive, they are essential to the kind of work I want to create. I refuse to compromise on the quality of materials. Some might argue that “nobody will notice, so why not use cheaper, readily available materials?” But as an artisan, I know that the true essence of a piece lies in its quality, which cannot be faked. The outward appearance and inner spirit of a piece cannot lie. - We adhere to 72 traditional processes.
Every piece is crafted according to a strict 72-step traditional process, following time-honored methods with great respect. This isn’t just about honoring craftsmanship; it’s about creating works that are truly special. We maintain an unwavering respect for the traditions that allow our pieces to stand out.
Peony Ceramics – Exclusive Pieces on Our Independent Platform
In recent years, we’ve showcased our finest works on our independent website, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. One common response is: “The actual pieces are more beautiful than in the pictures, and the feel is exceptional!” Customers often find it hard to describe exactly what makes them so beautiful, but they recognize it — the unique aura of the pieces. This is exactly what I aim for: the indefinable beauty that comes from perfecting every detail. Without attention to every step, the end result would blend into the masses. That’s why I am constantly striving to improve, pouring all my energy into presenting beauty in every piece.
The Challenges of Traditional Craftsmanship
Due to the unique nature of traditional craftsmanship, external factors such as weather, temperature, and humidity can affect the kiln firing process. This means our production output is limited, but it is precisely this commitment to quality that makes each piece truly exceptional.