Chapter 120 You'll Pay! (Two Chapters Combined)
Can porcelain and pottery techniques be applied for intangible cultural heritage status?
Of course you can.
In 2006, ceramic craftsmanship was among the first fifteen items in the first batch of national intangible cultural heritage projects, including the Yaozhou Kiln and Chengcheng Yaotou Kiln in Shaanxi Province.
Cultural relic restoration can also be nominated for World Heritage status, and gold and silver craftsmanship can be nominated even more extensively, including gold leaf, gold and silver sub-categories, gold and silver inlay, gold lacquer decoration, and more.
But it's not like you can just apply.
First, the project itself must demonstrate certain historical, cultural, and scientific value. Second, the applicant team and the conservation organization must possess a certain level of academic research capability.
Wang Qizhi is not worried about these two points. The difficulty lies in the third point, which is also the most important: it must be unique enough, have living evidence of its inheritance, and have a clear chain of inheritance.
To put it bluntly: ideally, there should only be one remaining offspring, preferably in a critical state where the lineage is on the verge of being broken, but still showing signs of activity in society.
Therefore, skills developed through institutional research and exploration of ancient documents do not count, and even restored skills do not meet the standard of "inheritors".
For example, in the second batch of applications for World Heritage status in 2008, the Shanghai Museum's application for the restoration of ancient ceramics was rejected by the Ministry of Culture as soon as it was submitted because it did not receive enough attention, the projects selected by the assisting team were too ordinary, and the complete lineage of mentors and apprentices was not compiled.
The following year, Professor Jiang Daoyin, the applicant for the inheritance, collaborated with a private company, but it wasn't until the fourth batch, seven years later, in 2014, that his application was successful.
The Shanghai Museum applied as a protected site, but it wasn't until the fifth batch in 2021 that its application was successful. The reason it was so difficult lies in its uniqueness and clear lineage of heritage.
Does Lin Sicheng possess those qualities?
Uniqueness is certainly present, whether it's gold and silver craftsmanship or ceramic restoration techniques.
But of course, there was no inheritance.
However, you can find a mentor, become an apprentice, and learn.
For example, Professor Yao Hansong: taking the grandfather of Director He Jintang as the first generation, then He Jintang and his son, who were collected by the Shaanxi History Museum, are the second and third generations.
Professor Yao learned his craft from He Jintang's father, making him a third-generation apprentice. If Lin Sicheng were to become his apprentice, he would be a fourth-generation apprentice.
Will Professor Yao accept it?
Wang Qizhi suspected that if he made the call now, Professor Yao would dare to expel Lin Sicheng from Xida University tomorrow.
"But it's not foolproof!"
Wang Qizhi frowned. "It would be best if we could find Professor He Jintang!"
Lin Sicheng thought for a moment: "I'm afraid it's difficult!"
Because there is a strict requirement for applying for World Heritage status: cultivating talent, inheriting and innovating... To put it more officially: it must be passed down, and more importantly, it must be brought to life.
So, as I said before: why should someone teach their essential skills, which they use to make a living, to others for free?
Wang Qizhi emphasized: "My intention is to have my name on it, just in case!"
“Teacher, I think Professor Yao is perfect!” Lin Sicheng shook his head. “The Provincial Museum has a huge influence, and its research capabilities are more than sufficient! It’s also a non-profit institution, so it won’t hesitate to popularize and pass on the knowledge…”
Wang Qizhi paused for a moment: Why does this feel a bit like a nonsensical statement?
I was talking about the name of inheritance, so why did Lin Sicheng bring up influence and research ability again?
He was about to explain, his mouth already open, when he suddenly remembered Lin Sicheng's mention of "popularizing and passing on traditions," and he closed it again.
Oh right, how could I forget? He Jintang and the Provincial Museum have a fundamental conflict.
If you choose the former, you can't choose the latter; you can't have both.
That's secondary; the key point is that even if it's just a nominal appointment, the master-disciple relationship shouldn't be arbitrarily bestowed. For example, what if He Jintang wants a share of the profits if the inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List is successful?
I'm your mentor. It's not unreasonable for me to start a company under your name, like Sheng Tang Xuan.
Then they'll make a huge number of counterfeit products and flood the market... The scene is too beautiful for Wang Qizhi to even imagine.
He raised his hand and scratched his forehead: he was decisive and efficient, but in some aspects, he was not as thorough and meticulous as Lin Sicheng.
“I was just thinking of calling Professor Yao right away, but it seems I need to hold off for now! Here’s what we’ll do: you get ready first, and then we’ll go again another day to give Professor Yao and the Provincial Museum some more confidence…”
Lin Sicheng nodded: "Okay!"
We definitely need to build more confidence: first, we need to find a mentor; second, the protection unit for the World Heritage application project must have sufficient influence and research capabilities, and the provincial museum is undoubtedly the best choice for the latter.
Secondly, it also reduces competition. To put it simply, if the Shaanxi History Museum were to publicly announce: "I want to apply for the 'Gold and Silver Craftsmanship' intangible cultural heritage project selection," all the companies from Fengxiang and jewelry companies would have to back down, significantly increasing the chances of success.
However, as the saying goes, haste makes waste, so don't be too impatient.
But Wang Qizhi was unusually anxious, his face full of worry: "But what about ceramics? First, they need to have distinctive features, and most importantly, they need a lineage of tradition: but Professor Lin, I'm afraid, isn't enough?"
It's not just insufficient, it's completely irrelevant: the old man was among the first batch of students majoring in archaeology at Northwest University, a pure academic background, so what's he talking about regarding inheritance or intangible cultural heritage?
But there is a way.
Lin Sicheng softly uttered three words: "Old lady!"
Wang Qi was stunned for a moment, then suddenly realized, as if the clouds had parted and the sun had risen: That's right, how could I have forgotten about that old lady from Qishan?
The old lady's father-in-law was a genuine craftsman of the Imperial Household Department during the late Qing Dynasty, and the old lady herself spent her entire life sprucing up loose hair and repairing cultural relics. Is the lineage long enough? Is the heritage clear enough?
Think back to that day, the way the old lady looked at Lin Sicheng. If Lin Sicheng had dared to say he wanted to become her disciple, the old lady would have set up an incense table right there in the hall.
More importantly: the chicken cup.
As long as these two things can be repaired, they can be placed on the desk of the higher-ups: "Come on, take a look, have you ever seen this before?"
Wang Qizhi even felt that he had a greater grasp of gold and silver craftsmanship than during the Tang Dynasty.
"The same principle applies: the old lady shouldn't rush to look for it. Even if she does, she should wait until you've repaired the delicate yellow glaze and the large jar with the dragon and floral design. But the necessary preparatory work must be done first..."
Wang Qizhi became excited again, but his thinking was exceptionally clear: "Let's seek the school's support first, but before we discuss this with the college and school leaders, let's finalize the team first..."
"Then, put it into practice as soon as possible, and simultaneously organize the results. It doesn't need to be much, nor does it need to repair the chicken cup. As long as you can repair that large jar with the dragon and floral pattern, I, your teacher, will dare to take it to the leaders of the Cultural Bureau..."
Lin Sicheng's eyes lit up.
At times, Professor Wang can be a bit eccentric and impatient. But when it comes to using his brain, he can outwit ten Professors Shang.
Just like now: the master and apprentice have projects they need and a lineage to pass on their knowledge. It's like the school sends an auxiliary team to help out, and at most provides some equipment and materials.
Then, a national honor was bestowed upon them: Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection Unit. Therefore, the school leaders shouldn't be too pleased or overly excited.
But the worst thing is if something goes wrong, like bringing in someone with connections like Wang Qizhi, who would be fighting amongst themselves all day long, so how could they possibly apply for a posthumous title?
Wang Qizhi clapped his hands and looked at Lin Sicheng. "I think it's quite suitable for Professor Lin to be in charge, with Shang Yan assisting. What do you think?"
It's definitely appropriate: the old man would never cheat his own grandson.
Having dealt with Professor Shang so many times, both the teacher and student know his character very well: he is absolutely worthy of the professional ethics and moral integrity expected of a teacher.
Lin Sicheng pondered for a moment: "As for Professor Shang, you'll definitely have to handle this. As for Grandpa, I'll have to find an opportunity..."
The key point is that we dare not let the old man know too much at once: In such a short time, his grandson, who was originally more useless than an embroidered pillow, has not only learned everything he should and shouldn't know, but has even become quite proficient in it.
If I reveal everything, won't it scare the old man to death? So, I have to tell him little by little.
"Don't worry, Shang Yan may be a little slow-witted, but she's definitely good with her mouth." Wang Qizhi chuckled. "I'll call her later and ask her to come over for a chat... Let's go eat first!"
...
After grabbing a quick bite at the school gate, Lin Sicheng and Wang Qizhi returned to their studio.
The location was personally approved by Wang Qizhi, who had even visited it in person before. But unexpectedly, in such a short time, the changes have been so significant.
With that thought in mind, Lin Sicheng led Wang Qizhi into the control room.
Li Zhen was bent over a long table, polishing tiles, when she heard the door open and turned around: "Professor Wang!"
Wang Qizhi hummed in agreement and nodded.
"It's almost eight o'clock, still not gone?" Lin Sicheng checked his watch. "Senior sister, have you eaten yet?"
"I've already eaten in the cafeteria, and I was just about to leave!" Li Zhen replied, and began packing her things.
After tidying up, she paused slightly and asked, "Are you staying here again tonight?"
Lin Sicheng thought for a moment and said, "Maybe!"
Professor Shang is coming later, and the meeting will probably go on very late, so I'm too lazy to go back.
"Oh~" Li Zhen responded softly, smoothing a stray hair behind her ear. "I've seen you wearing this outfit for three or four days, so Ah Zhu and I went to the mall at noon to buy you two shirts and some trousers. Try them on tonight, and if they don't fit, I'll go exchange them tomorrow..."
Li Zhen's expression was calm, and her tone was equally composed. Besides, in his previous life, his assistant had always done these kinds of tasks, and even more so, so Lin Sicheng didn't think much of it: "Thank you, Senior Sister!"
Li Zhen smiled and said, "It's reimbursable!"
Lin Sicheng nodded: Of course.
If it's not reimbursed, the nature of the business changes.
Wang Qizhi remained silent, but his eyelids twitched: What does it mean to influence subtly and silently?
That's it.
The key point is that even he didn't realize that Lin Sicheng hadn't been home for three days and had been wearing the same outfit the whole time.
Shang Yan is quite an impressive student.
As Lin Sicheng was secretly observing her, Li Zhen had already packed her things and was about to leave when Lin Sicheng called out to her again: "Senior sister, Professor Shang is coming soon too. He has something to discuss with Professor Wang. You should listen in too!"
Li Zhen smiled gently: "Okay!"
Wang Qizhi's eyelids twitched as well: he was obedient and compliant, not even a little curious, and never asked a single unnecessary question.
Wasn't Shan Wangshu like that back then?
A man who is capable, extremely busy, and requires complete focus on everything he does is most afraid of unexpected troubles.
As a result, many things are compromised and made do with. Gradually, a mindset of "I'll choose whichever has less trouble" will be formed in the subconscious: including life, work, and some daily habits.
For example, Lin Sicheng could wear the same outfit for three days straight. Also, when he went to the cafeteria, he would eat at whichever window had fewer people, even if it was unpalatable.
Even choosing a spouse!
Don't believe me?
Wang Qizhi can give his own account, and he can talk for three days and three nights without stopping.
Moreover, this girl is pretty, has a gentle personality, and most importantly, shares the same interests.
Guess what, as time goes on, Lin Sicheng might start to think, "It's not bad either"?
Wang Qizhi thought about it more and more and it seemed very possible.
Just as her imagination was running wild, with a creak, Shang Yan pushed open the door and entered.
The four of them went to the office next door.
Li Zhen brewed the tea, which Shang Yan took and blew on to dry the surface. Then she smiled at Lin Sicheng, and then pouted at Wang Qizhi: "Why did you call me over so late?"
Wang Qizhi was already used to Shang Yan's attitude. It was also his fault for repeatedly pushing Shang Yan to the limit.
But Shang Yan was, after all, a university professor. She was just a little slow to react in unexpected situations, not truly stupid. She was already being quite lenient by not spilling tea on Wang Qizhi's face after being fooled by him so many times.
Wang Qizhi smiled, lowered his voice, and said with a hint of temptation, "Shang Yan, do you want to receive an award, a big prize?"
Instantly, Shang Yan's eyes widened, her face full of vigilance: "Wang Qizhi, what are you planning to do now!"
Lin Sicheng had just taken a sip of tea when he nearly spat it out.
Wang Qi looked helpless: Can't we trust each other a little bit more?
"Lin Sicheng, you speak!"
Lin Sicheng nodded: "Professor Shang, Professor Wang invited you here today to discuss with you whether we can apply for the 'Ancient Ceramic Restoration Techniques' to be listed as an intangible cultural heritage item, with the district government as the applicant and the school as the protection unit, relying on our studio."
After a brief pause, Lin Sicheng emphasized again: "National level!"
Shang Yan gripped the teacup tightly.
That's what Lin Sicheng said. If it were Wang Qizhi, she would have retorted: "You're ugly, but you have such beautiful dreams."
What is intangible cultural heritage?
It embodies the excellent traditional culture of the Chinese nation, has historical, literary, artistic and scientific value, and is unique, even exclusive, as well as intangible cultural heritage projects whose transmission is on the verge of extinction.
What is a national-level entity? It is established and presided over by the State Council, with the assistance of the cultural departments.
How difficult is it to apply for World Heritage status?
Just to give you an example: In 2005, the State Council issued a notice, and all provinces rushed to apply for the title. From the Han Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty, there were more than a thousand famous porcelain kilns in various provinces and cities.
In the end, only seven kilns were successfully selected: Jingdezhen Imperial Kiln, Yixing Purple Clay Kiln, Tongchuan Yaozhou Kiln, Chengcheng Yaotou Kiln, Fujian Dehua Kiln, Zhejiang Longquan Kiln, and Hebei Zizhou Kiln.
There's only one reason: the kiln fire has never gone out, and the tradition has never been broken. To put it bluntly: it's been firing all along.
The Shanghai Museum, renowned in the industry for its ceramic restoration technology and ranking among the top three institutions, had its application for an "Ancient Ceramics Restoration" project rejected outright.
Why?
It lacks distinctive features, is not unique enough, and its lineage is unclear.
To put it simply: almost every province has ancient kilns, and every province has produced famous porcelain. All local research and educational institutions study similar categories and techniques, so they are not "unique" at all, let alone "endangered".
Therefore, let alone "national level", even at the provincial level, Wang Qizhi would have to use all his abilities.
Just as Shang Yan revealed a cold smile, Wang Qizhi waved his hand and said, "Lin Sicheng, let her see what you're made of!"
Lin Sicheng smiled, pulled a box out from under his feet, and opened the lid.
Shang Yan paused for a moment, then narrowed her eyes: Ming Hongzhi period delicate yellow glaze, Hongzhi yellow ground blue and white dragon pattern?
Instinctively, she took out two porcelain shards: having studied them for half her life, she couldn't be mistaken. So, Wang Qizhi and Lin Sicheng wanted to repair these two pieces and then, based on their restoration techniques, apply for intangible cultural heritage status?
"Wishful thinking!"
After staring at it for a long time, Shang Yan dropped the porcelain shard and glared at Wang Qizhi:
"I'm just asking you, how do you plan to have Lin Sicheng fix it? With rivets, gilding, kintsugi, or lacquer?"
"The latter two are not taught in our school, nor in other schools. But the question is, which provincial-level or higher museum doesn't study them?"
"Lin Sicheng's craftsmanship is indeed superb, but both of these have complete historical records, and their folk traditions are much more widespread. They are not endangered in the slightest. So what protection do you have in mind, and how do you plan to apply for protection?"
Shang Yan's mouth was like a machine gun, going on and on, and she was also squinting, as if to say: Wang Qizhi, even if the entire World Heritage application review team is full of your relatives, it won't work.
Wang Qizhi was neither in a hurry nor angry: "I knew you wouldn't believe me, but don't worry, I'll show you tomorrow!"
Shang Yan scoffed, "What's your opinion?"
Wang Qizhi leaned back slowly and deliberately: "Have you ever heard of layered repair?"
Shang Yan shook her head immediately: "Impossible!"
"What's impossible? You weren't there when Lin Sicheng was repairing that cloisonné plate, the one with the sunflower-shaped rim?"
Shang Yan was stunned: That's right, Lin Sicheng's 6.6 burning, adding color layer by layer, isn't that just layered repair?
But she still felt it was impossible.
The so-called layered repair is actually a seamless repair, but there is a fundamental difference between enamel on copper and porcelain, and it is more difficult.
Many institutions have started research, but only three have relatively mature technologies: the National Institute of Cultural Heritage of the State Administration of Cultural Heritage, the Palace Museum, and the Shanghai Museum.
Even if Lin Sicheng had pieced together some knowledge from ancient documents, academic papers, and journals, he certainly had no prior experience with core technologies.
Even if Wang Qizhi used connections to get him the technology, and even if Lin Sicheng was extremely smart, he could only learn the basics in such a short time.
Shang Yan pinched her raised brow. "Lin Sicheng, copper is copper, and porcelain is porcelain. The coefficient of thermal expansion of the base and the high-temperature resistance coefficient of the glaze are completely different concepts. But that's only one aspect..."
"Secondly, have you considered the irreproducibility of traditional materials, the compatibility with alternative materials, the color constancy from multiple angles, and the tactile reproduction of brushstrokes?"
Especially the last two points: yellow-ground blue-and-white porcelain is a type of layered porcelain: the body is fired in layers, the glaze is layered, and the colors are layered.
Repairing the base, repairing the carved body, and applying layers of base glaze, yellow glaze, and blue and white glaze... Just the problem of color difference caused by different brushstrokes interacting with the color layers is enough for Lin Sicheng to study for three to five years.
The institutions applying for World Heritage status are numerous and possess strong research capabilities, such as the Palace Museum and the Shanghai Museum. Therefore, by the time Lin Sicheng masters it, it will be too late.
“Professor Shang, I understand!” Lin Sicheng nodded. “But I want to give it a try!”
"Don't listen to Wang Qizhi's nonsense. All he has is his mouth; he's unpredictable!" Shang Yan said helplessly. "Putting everything else aside, this box of porcelain shards alone is worth hundreds of thousands!"
"I know!" Lin Sicheng smiled. "But I still want to give it a try?"
"It's hopeless!"
Shang Yan covered her forehead, then pointed to the box, as if she had just thought of something, and asked, "Whose porcelain shards are these?"
Wang Qizhi replied matter-of-factly, "Of course it's Lin Sicheng's?"
"Okay!" Shang Yan smiled. "If he breaks it, you pay for it!"
Wang Qizhi was completely bewildered: What kind of logic is this?
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