A remarkable exhibition of Zibo colored glaze, or liuli, is currently on display at the Qingdao Museum, running until Aug 31. The exhibition bridges the thousand-year-old glass-making heritage of Zibo, a cradle of Chinese glass art, with the coastal spirit of Qingdao.

As one of China's five most treasured crafts, colored glaze is known as "sculpture in fire". Boshan in Zibo has been a core birthplace of Chinese colored glaze culture, with kilns burning continuously since the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC). The Boshan colored glaze-making technique is a national intangible cultural heritage, and the site preserves China's earliest ancient glass kiln ruins, often dubbed a "living fossil" of traditional colored glaze craftsmanship.

The exhibition also features vibrant contemporary works. This cultural event serves as a bridge, linking the profound craftsmanship of Qilu culture, an integral part of traditional Chinese culture, with the dynamic, open character of the coastal city.

Royal jiyouhuang (chicken-fat yellow) glass artifacts show the mastery of ancient Chinese artisans. [Photo by Xu Shuai/WeChat account: qingdaopicture]

Inspired by Dunhuang's floral and jewel patterns, this layered glass piece merges China's western region aesthetics with the translucent beauty of glass. [Photo by Xu Shuai/WeChat account: qingdaopicture]

Exquisite glass flowers, from magnolias to peonies, reveal lifelike textures and intricate details, showcasing the artisan's masterful skill. [Photo by Xu Shuai/WeChat account: qingdaopicture]