Dongying, a city in East China's Shandong province, is rich in culture and home to the traditional Chinese craft of gourd carving.

In Chinese, the word for gourd, "hulu", sounds like "fulu", symbolizing wealth, good fortune, and well-being. Over centuries, this intricate art has evolved into a refined practice combining carving, painting, and polishing techniques.

A finished gourd carving by Zhang Jiandong, the inheritor of this art in Dongying. [Photo/WeChat account: dongyingdaily]

The process begins with selecting mature gourds that have been stored for over a year. Artisans carefully study the gourd's shape, sketch designs, and carve intricate patterns using specialized knives.

Traditional motifs often include landscapes, mythological figures, calligraphy, and symbols of prosperity, with each piece reflecting a cultural and aesthetic sensibility. Multiple layers of paint and polishing techniques enhance texture, durability, and visual appeal.

Zhang carefully colors the design, bringing each carved detail to life. [Photo/WeChat account: dongyingdaily]

Beyond mere decoration, gourd carving has adapted to contemporary life. Carved gourds are used as tea canisters, wine pots, bookmarks, ornaments, and decorative lamps, blending artistry with functionality. Certain works, such as illuminated gourd lamps, combine intricate carving with artistic lighting to create striking effects.

Gourd carving exemplifies the fusion of skill, creativity, and cultural meaning. Its meticulous techniques, imaginative expression, and enduring symbolism make it a distinctive part of Dongying's culture, continuing to inspire appreciation and adaptation in modern contexts.