Editor's Note: This article is produced in collaboration with the Chongqing Institute of Foreign Studies as part of a series of ongoing reports exploring the city's abundant resources in intangible cultural heritages.
Bishan micro-engraving craft. (Photo: He Fang)
Bishan micro-engraving craft, which originated in the Qing Dynasty, involves using tools such as carving knives to etch tiny characters or images onto materials like goldstone or ivory. These pieces are then polished and colored to create the final micro-engraved artwork. The subjects, often drawn from traditional poetry, famous paintings, or local cultural motifs, are so minute that they can only be discerned under a magnifying glass. Unlike micro-carving, micro-engraving is characterized by concave, less three-dimensional designs, emphasizing delicacy and decorative detail. This art form truly embodies the idea of "Seeing the big in the small, seeing the art in the micro" showcasing exceptional artistic value.
As the saying goes, "A craftsman must first sharpen his tools to do his work well." Tools are indispensable in micro-engraving. In addition to common implements like flat, conical, and bevelled knives, artisans also use homemade small brushes and specialized carving knives. Before engraving, the artist must carefully plan the carving area and content proportions to ensure harmony and beauty in the final piece. During the process, the engraver must wield the knife with steadiness, precision, and confidence—each stroke is mere microns in width, requiring the aid of a magnifying glass or microscope.
Micro-engraving requires enough measurements and standards, so the appropriate carving tool should be necessary no matter what kind of the micro-engraving carrier is. Like the brush strokes in calligraphy , the technique of using knife, is more important than power , which can enrich the artistic effect of the works. To micro-engraving calligraphy, for example, the single word stresses on the length , the degree of conformity and the balance of density; the handwrting focuses on simple and fluent penmanship; the overall image needs to show the effect of ups and downs.
Micro-engraving also pays attention to the level of painting and the art of composition. In micro-carving portraits and scenes, it is necessary to be ‘careful’ and ‘precise’. After fine carving and painting, then polishing and colouring with homemade small brushes so as to achieve an exquisite painting. For example, in the work of Bishan non-genetic inheritor Pan Qihui's ‘87 Gods and Immortals Volume’, the characters' lifelike expressions, complementary demeanour, the stubble of the thick moustache and beard, and the free flowing sleeves are all clearly visible under a magnifying glass. This work integrates calligraphy and painting with the carrier, carving out the lines and the charm of traditional Chinese calligraphy and painting.
Bishan micro-engraving craft. (Photo: He Fang)
As you can see, the technique of micro-engraving is very delicate and a great test for the engraver. The knife should be measured, not exceeding the prescribed limits; the carving should follow the rules; the painting should be layered, avoiding pictures scattered and uneven.
Nowadays, the inheritors uphold the spirit of craftsmanship and carve out the micro-world, little by little. When enjoying these works, you can not only intuitively feel the emotion and mood in the works, but also appreciate the creative talent and hard work of the inheritors.
Chinese script: He Fang
Tutored by: Wen Chunxun
Translation: Su Yi
Tutored by: Tu Qingqing Jinag Jun