Yaotou Ceramic Firing Technique of Chengcheng

Yaotou ceramics represent a unique folk art in Shaanxi's Guanzhong region, with origins in the Tang Dynasty and peak development during Ming-Qing periods. This craft preserves complete traditional techniques, showcasing northern China's rustic ceramic style.

The production process includes five key stages: material collection, clay preparation, hand-shaping, glazing decoration, and kiln firing. Artisans use local white-purple clay, processed through crushing, soaking and settling before hand-throwing or mold-casting.

Notable products feature:

- Functional ware: jars, basins and pots for daily use

- Artistic pieces: tiger-shaped pillows and mouse-decorated jars

- Children's items: special childcare utensils, such as Lazy Wife (a specific type of childcare utensil)

This millennia-old craft now faces critical survival challenges, with only a few elderly inheritors remaining and traditional workshops disappearing, calling for immediate preservation actions.