The oldest living things on earth are our source for wood in all aspects of our lives. Trees are used for building, tools and in many forms of artistic expression. For many centuries, China’s wood carving tradition, has been a dominant art form that has continued to present times.
The awesome and majestic work of art, “Along The River During The Quinming Festival”, carved by Zheng Chunhui, its a prime example of the very best of Chinese carving mastery. This mind-blowing, intricately carved “world” utilized a 12-foot long tree!
It is renowned as the longest wood carving in the world, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. As you watch the video below, which tours the entire 39-foot long piece, you will feel as if you have been transported into a world that contains 550 individually carved characters, buildings and vehicles that bring this village setting to life!
The content of Chunhui’s masterpiece was derived from Zhang Zeduan’s painting from the Song Dynasty era, named “Along The River During The Quinming Festival”. It is believed that it was created at some point between 1085 and 1145. The painting’s depiction of life in the Song dynasty was so astoundingly intricate, that it has inspired many artists through the centuries to artistically reinterpret it.
The masterpiece you are about to tour in the footage below, took Chunhui four years to create. The Quinming Festival is still celebrated to this day on the 15th day of the spring equinox. As you watch this video you will understand the sheer wonder of the renewal of life that is at the essence of this festival. It will take your breath away! Enjoy the tour!
Please SHARE This Story With Your Family and Friends 🙂
