Couple Give their Partnership a Glaze

Ji Shuangjun (left) and Ji Zimei in front of their workshop in Lutian village, Longquan city, Zhejiang province.WENG XINYANG/XINHUA

Ji Shuangjun and Ji Zimei, met in high school where they had a shared interest in ceramics. After graduating from the Jiangxi Arts and Ceramics Technology Institute in Jingdezhen, Jiangxi province, which is known as China's "porcelain capital", they returned to their hometown, Longquan, Zhejiang province, and settled in Lutian village.

In their workshop, Ji Shuangjun (right) and Ji Zimei examine patterns on porcelain bowls.WENG XINYANG/XINHUA

There, they established a workshop and have devoted themselves to studying the celadon ware patterns of the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127). This was a time when Longquan ware from Dayao village in Longquan was covered in celadon glaze ranging in color from faint yellowish-green to a dark olive tone. In the 12th to 15th centuries, Longquan celadon ceramics became one of the main export along the Maritime Silk Road and charmed the world with their magnificent greenish tint.

Ji Zimei carves outlines on the porcelain.WENG XINYANG/XINHUA

Drawing inspiration from ancient ceramics, the couple re-create distinguished Longquan ware.

Besides ceramics, they have also infused their interest in traditional culture, including patterns found on bronze and silver ware, into their creation.

Ji Shuangjun creates unique glazes for the pottery, which enhances visual appeal. WENG XINYANG/XINHUA

"The inspiration is genuine, while the creation needs to be down-to-earth," says Ji Zimei.

In 2009, the traditional firing technique used for Longquan celadon was included on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Before glazing, Ji Zimei checks the ceramic pieces.WENG XINYANG/XINHUA

Inspired by the celadon ware of the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127), the couple show their celadon bowls and the style that became popular during the dynasty.WENG XINYANG/XINHUA

Celadon collector Cai Jianqing (left) shows his collection to the couple on one of their many visits to him.WENG XINYANG/XINHUA

In their workshop, Ji Zimei (left) introduces the celadon incense burner to visitors.WENG XINYANG/XINHUA