After a three-year hiatus, Li Ziqi, the celebrated Chinese influencer known for her artfully serene videos, has re-emerged on the digital scene, capturing global curiosity.

On November 12, Li marked her return with the release of two videos, one of which spotlighted the intricate craft of Chinese lacquer art.

Titled 'Carved Lacquer Hidden Flowers: Carving Out the Purple Aura,' this video quickly garnered millions of views worldwide, reaffirming Li's talent for blending cultural history with modern storytelling.

Li's resurgence was met with widespread enthusiasm, particularly her focus on lacquer art.

This representation was both an artistic feat and a mission of cultural preservation.

The centrepiece—a meticulously carved lacquer wardrobe—took over eight months to complete, showcasing not just her artistry but also her dedication to this ancient craft.

Throughout the process, Li confronted severe allergic reactions, yet her determination prevailed, resulting in a creation that embodies beauty, strength, and perseverance.

Her choice of design, 'Qilin Looking Back' (麒麟回首，万事不愁), pays homage to a mythical creature and carries a heartfelt blessing for her grandmother's health, with whom she resides in their rural home.

Lacquer art, known as '漆艺' in Chinese, is one of China's most revered traditions, boasting a history that spans over 8,000 years.

Contrary to Western associations of the term 'japan' with Japanese culture, China's lacquer tradition significantly predates Japan's. Archaeological discoveries in Zhejiang Province point to the Hemudu culture as the earliest practitioners who utilized lacquer tree sap to craft durable, aesthetically pleasing objects.

By the time of the Shang and Zhou dynasties (c.16th century-256 BC), lacquer had become a staple material for a variety of uses, from furniture and ceremonial objects to musical instruments and weapons.

The artistry blossomed particularly during the Chu culture in the Spring and Autumn periods (770–476 BC) and reached its zenith during the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD), when lacquerware was so cherished that it accompanied the deceased in their graves as symbols of status and spiritual transcendence.

Chinese lacquerware has long been celebrated for its dual nature of beauty and practicality.

Particularly notable from the Han era are pieces distinguished by vibrant colors, especially red and black, symbolizing life's vibrancy and the wisdom of age.

The type of lacquer art Li Ziqi presents, 'Carved Lacquer Hidden Flowers' (雕漆隐花), involves a sophisticated and labor-intensive technique.

The creation starts with the careful extraction and refinement of lacquer sap from trees to form a malleable substance.

This lacquer is then applied in numerous layers, potentially reaching 40 or 50, each demanding thoughtful polishing and drying.

Li's video meticulously documents each precise step of this complex undertaking.

From applying the lacquer on a fabric base to incorporating textured designs using techniques like mother-of-pearl inlays and detailed carving, the process culminates in a 'qilin' (麒麟) motif, a mythical symbol of good fortune and protection, reflecting her best wishes for her grandmother.

Among the notable challenges Li encountered was an allergic reaction to the lacquer material—a common hurdle faced by artisans within this age-old practice.

Despite the discomfort and the exhaustive hours required, her steadfast commitment to the craft shines through, underscoring the passion and tenacity traditional artistry demands.

The resurgence of lacquer art, particularly through traditional methodologies highlighted in Li's video, faces the threat of becoming an obscurity.

By sharing this art form with millions worldwide, Li not only reveals the craft's intrinsic beauty but also emphasizes the importance of preserving intangible cultural heritage.

Through the vast reach of digital media, she educates a diverse audience about China's rich artisanal legacy, fostering a greater appreciation for craftsmanship intertwined with China's history.