Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –
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Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News
Moscow, September 25 (Xinhua) — The exhibition "The Magic of Purple Clay: Yixing Zisha Pottery" opened Wednesday at the State Museum of Oriental Art in Moscow. This large-scale exhibition, featuring the best works by ancient and contemporary ceramic masters, introduces Russian viewers to the traditional Chinese art of making Yixing clay teapots, which originated 700 years ago in Jiangsu Province, eastern China.
As Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui stated at the opening ceremony, the exhibition showcases centuries-old works of Chinese craftsmanship, which are an important part of China's cultural heritage. "The exhibition features unique pieces made from Yixing purple clay. This exhibition will play a significant role in cultural exchanges between China and Russia and will be one of the key events of the China-Russia Year of Culture," the diplomat added, noting that the art of Zisha ceramics transcends boundaries and brings the two countries' cultures closer together.
Vologda Oblast Governor Georgy Filimonov, who supported the exhibition and is a great admirer of Chinese culture, emphasized that the comprehensive strategic partnership between Russia and China encompasses not only political and economic projects but also cultural contacts. "We're not just talking about Chinese cultural artifacts; we're talking about this exhibition as a major humanitarian project that illustrates the depth of the comprehensive Russian-Chinese strategic partnership, continuing the path pursued by the leaders of our countries," he emphasized.
Thirty-five Yixing ceramics masters came to the Moscow exhibition to present their works in person. Their pieces harmoniously blend the deep traditions of classical ceramic art with modern ideas imbued with an innovative spirit. According to Yixing Vice Mayor Liu Ying, the art of Zisha ceramics is a shining pearl in the treasury of the outstanding traditional culture of the Chinese nation. "For hundreds of years, generations of Yixing masters, passing on their craft from hand to hand, have transformed clay into amazing, elegant works of art, imbuing Zisha pieces with life and soul," she said.
At the opening of the exhibition, Zisha's first Russian master, honorary member of the Yixing Ceramics Association, and collector Gleb Muzrukov presented his book, "The Magic of Zisha: Secrets of Yixing Ceramics." It explores the different types of Yixing clay, the technology of creating teaware, the specifics of firing, and his personal journey in mastering this art. "The true magic of Zisha is not Yixing clay, no matter how magical its properties. The true magic of Zisha is the people of Yixing, who transform a piece of petrified earth into a work of astonishing grace and beauty, striking us with its variety of forms, exquisite color, and profound philosophical meaning," the master remarked, adding that the exhibition and book are dedicated to the people of Yixing and their remarkable art.
The exhibition features over 100 works by the best contemporary Yixing masters, as well as exhibits from the collections of the State Museum of Oriental Art and the Peterhof State Museum-Reserve. Visitors can also view teapots from the family collection of Maria Zakharova, the official representative of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The exhibition runs until November 9.
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