Craftsman keeps ancient ceramic tradition alive

The Xing Kiln, or Xingyao, was one of the famous kilns of the Sui (581-618) and Tang (618-907) dynasties. In 2014, the Xing ware technique was listed as a national intangible cultural heritage. Zhang Zhizhong, a 59-year-old inheritor, became a prolific craftsman after he systematically analyzed and perfected his technique starting in 1980. In addition, Zhang always teaches at a local ceramic expo park and local schools to let more people know the intricacies of Xing ware and inherit this traditional skill.