Guangzuo Ivory Carving: Intercultural Communication on the "Maritime Silk Road" During the 17 th -19 th Century

Abstract

Ivory carving, jade carving, cloisonne and carved lacquer were once known as the "four great masters" of Chinese arts and crafts, and they are also one of the artistic symbols recording the process of human civilization. From the 17th to 19th century, Guangzuo, namely Canton style, ivory carving was one of the quintessence of Chinese crafts that was deeply welcomed by the western world and there are many monographs and articles discussed by predecessors. However, the exploration of the relationship between Guangzuo ivory carving and the intercultural communication of the "Maritime Silk Road" is still weak. By excavating and combing the source of raw materials, technical characteristics, source and export development process of Guangzuo ivory carving, this paper discussed the relationship between overseas market expansion of Guangzuo ivory carving and intercultural communication on the "Maritime Silk Road", and puts forward the following understandings: (1) Since the Tang and Song Dynasties, especially from the 17th to the mid-19th century, ivory materials were mainly obtained through the "Maritime Silk Road" trade with the South China Sea as the starting point. (2) The typical ivory carvings exported in the 17th-19th century included ivory balls, baskets, fans, jewel cases, sewing boxes, card cases, letter holders, and brooches etc. In spite of the category, the quantity of ivory products is far less than the other export goods. But the Guangzuo ivory carvings were still one of the important export commodities at that time for its high material value, craft skills, unique characteristics in artistry, appreciation and cultural compatibility. (3) The exquisite skills, styles and decorative patterns of Guangzuo ivory carving not only inherited Chinese traditional crafts, but also absorbed overseas skills, and were strongly influenced by European consumer culture at the meantime. The Guangzuo ivory carvings exported to the western world are actually the ODM(original design manufacturer) products made by local craftsmen in reference to the needs of overseas customers, which are representing the wisdom of Chinese skilled craftsmen and the integration of multicultural exchanges. (4) The success of the Guangzuo ivory carving foreign trade during the 17th to the 19th century showed that the intercultural communication and mutual learning are important factors, even the key factors, for expanding the international market, which may provide a typical paradigm for other precious jade and stone products exporting to foreign countries or expanding the international market today.