A nut-carved boat crafted by Bao Jiahui. [Photo/jinhua.com.cn]
Nestled on Jinhua Mountain in Jinhua, Zhejiang province, the China Ancient Nut Carving Museum captivates visitors with its distinctive allure.
The museum displays over 600 nut-carving works from the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911), spanning more than 300 varieties.
Among the exquisite pieces, over 180 small boats have left visitors in awe. Though small as a grain of rice, the windows on the boats can be opened and closed smoothly.
There are also works crafted by Bao Jiahui, head of the museum, who began his journey with nut carving at the age of 16. For decades, he has remained devoted to this traditional art, transforming olive nuts, no larger than a thumb, into vibrant, lifelike carvings.
In recent years, he has been dedicated to innovating and preserving the art form, incorporating local elements such as fingered citron, camellia, and the Wanfo Pagoda into his creations.
To elevate the prominence of Jinhua nut carving, Bao has established eight exhibition halls, each with different functions. Among them, an intangible cultural heritage workshop provides employment for local villagers and artisans while promoting the art through educational tours for students.
