Ivory carving refers to the craft of carving ivory and its finished product. Ivory carving in Beijing and Guangzhou have different artistic styles.

The history of Beijing ivory carving can be traced back to at least two thousand years ago. In the course of subsequent historical development, many excellent craftsmen migrated or were recruited to Beijing from other places to exchange and discuss workmanship with local craftsmen. After centuries of practice, Beijing ivory carving has developed a graceful and elegant courtly artistic style and unique craft features. After a decline in the late Qing Dynasty, this ancient craft was revitalized with the efforts of Yang Shihui and his successors.

Due to its quality and aesthetic value, ivory carving has become part of China's special arts and crafts. Beijing ivory carving technology is complex and difficult. The carving themes are diverse, and the techniques are handed down orally. Since the 1980s, the international ivory trade was once banned for the sake of protecting elephant populations. As Beijing ivory carving technology relies entirely on imported ivory, it once faced the dilemma of having no raw materials and no trainees. In recent years, the international community has begun to discard the rigid trade ban approach and permitted trade in stockpiled ivory. Even so, there still remains a shortage of trainees to succeed to the Beijing ivory carving technology, and a protection mechanism should be established as soon as possible to preserve this ancient craft.

Translator: ZHAO Huinan