In the beginning, pokerworks mostly combined the techniques used in Chinese painting and folk painting. Thanks to continuous efforts made by pyrographers of later generations, some elements of western paintings were assimilated into pokerworks, achieving good artistic effects. Materials used ranged from bamboo and wood to xuanzhi (rice paper ) and silk tapestry. The works were as large as a 10-meter-long mural or as small as beads with a diameter of less than 1 centimeter.

Nanyang pokerworks mainly fall into eight categories and include more than 20 types. The painted pokerwork scrolls make use of such materials as silk tapestry, rice paper and resin cloth to create human figures, flowers and birds, water and mountain landscapes and calligraphy. Human figures that appear in Nanyang pokerworks are mostly taken from books, such as A Dream of Red Mansions, Journey to the West, Romance of the West Chamber and Romance of the Three Kingdoms, as well as murals at the Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes. Pokerworks created on wood include various kinds of frescos, folding screens, floor screens, plaques, and so on. In recent years, new products have emerged, such as pokerwork painted eggs, New Year cards, artistic ballpoint penholders, etc.

Nanyang pokerworks feature a novel style in terms of pattern design and ingeniously incorporate images of cultural and historical sites and celebrities. With lively scenes and lifelike human figures, many pokerworks have become national treasures or important gifts sent to foreign friends.

 The process

Pokerwork designs are almost always traced onto timber first -- so just about anyone can attempt it. Today's machines and nibs also allow great control in terms of color, depth and subtle shading variations.

Try decorating an old breadboard, rolling pin, wooden spoon, box or frame.

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