Legislation on Pingyao polished lacquerware techniques to take effect

A press conference on the announcement of the Protection Regulations of Pingyao Polished Lacquerware Decoration Techniques is held on Aug 16. [Photo/Pingyao Rong Mei]

Jinzhong city in North China's Shanxi province announced at a press conference on Aug 16 that the Protection Regulations of Pingyao Polished Lacquerware Decoration Techniques will be implemented from Oct 1. 

The regulations, consisting of 19 articles, mainly include the management system, talent cultivation mechanism, protection and preservation measures, and promotion of these highly acclaimed traditional techniques. 

A craftsman makes Pingyao polished lacquerware. [Photo/Yellow River News]

The regulations also specify the competent department and its main responsibilities for the protection of the art, the identification and obligations of representative inheritors and promoters, as well as specific protection measures in terms of geographical indication and trademark certificates. Jan 27 has been designated as an annual promotional day for Pingyao polished lacquerware decoration techniques.

Pingyao polished lacquerware in Pingyao county, one of China's four most famous kinds of lacquerware, is widely known for its palm rubbing gloss and gold-painted techniques, which have a history of over 1,000 years. In 2006, it was included in the national intangible cultural heritage list.

A tea set using Pingyao polished lacquerware decoration techniques [Photo/Yellow River News]

In recent years, the Pingyao polished lacquerware industry has experienced rapid development, with products entering the international market. However, issues such as a lack of industry standards, outdated management, a variety of raw materials, and interruptions in the process of inheriting these skills have hampered its development. This has led to a consensus being formed among the government, industry, and the public on the need to strengthen its protection and high-quality development. 

The local legislation provides legal protection for the passing down and development of this intangible cultural heritage item, contributing to the healthy and innovative development of the Pingyao polished lacquerware industry and the cultivation of related talents.