千年经典向新行｜北海贝雕：在刀尖与贝壳的碰撞中续写新篇章

Core Perspective - The article highlights the significance of Beihai shell carving as a national intangible cultural heritage, showcasing its evolution from traditional craftsmanship to contemporary artistic expressions, while emphasizing its historical connection to the Maritime Silk Road [1][5]. Group 1: Historical Context - The Beihai shell carving tradition dates back to the Tang and Song dynasties, influenced by exotic treasures brought by the Maritime Silk Road, leading to the development of the Ming dynasty's "Babaohuan" technique [1]. - In the 20th century, Beihai shell carvings gained international recognition, with products exported to over 40 countries and regions during the 1970s and 1980s [5]. Group 2: Challenges and Revival - The Beihai shell carving faced a decline in the 1990s due to various factors, risking the loss of this traditional craft [5]. - Lin Xiong, a representative inheritor of the intangible cultural heritage, revitalized the craft by recalling 26 veteran artisans from the original Beihai Arts and Crafts Factory, marking a new exploration path for Beihai shell carving [5][11]. Group 3: Artistic Innovation - Lin Xiong introduced a revolutionary approach by utilizing the natural colors and textures of shells, moving away from artificial dyeing, which was previously common in the craft [7]. - The production process of a shell carving involves multiple intricate steps, with some pieces requiring up to two tons of raw materials and taking several months to complete [9]. Group 4: Education and Modernization - Educational institutions like Guilin University of Electronic Technology and Beihai Vocational School have incorporated shell carving courses, fostering a new generation of artisans and creative professionals [11][14]. - The current landscape in Beihai includes around 20 companies and workshops engaged in shell carving, employing thousands of artisans from various age groups, thus ensuring the craft's sustainability and innovation [17].