Zhejiang Xitou village: Artists keep kilns burning

Every year, celadon maker Zhang Xi orchestrates a local team of experienced potters to fire the kiln, a process that takes half a year to prepare. Tourists from across the country flock to witness the firing and the subsequent unveiling of the celadon porcelain's beautiful glazes taken from the kiln.

Zhang learned about making celadon-glazed pottery from his grandfather. The craft has been passed down through his family since the 18th century. In Xitou village, many families, like Zhang's, have sustained themselves for centuries through this cherished craft.

"The kiln fire in our village has lasted for centuries. We feel it's our mission to protect the tradition and craft," says 52-year-old Zhang.

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