China Collection: Online Gallery - Wooden carvings - Jia Ye & Ai Nan monks - moine monk mönche rulai bddha carving sculpture poplar peuplier pappelholz

Buddhism At least 300 million people around the world are practicing Buddhists and it is estimated that perhaps another 300 million people practice a Chinese folk or traditional religion which is a mix of various religious beliefs including Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. Buddhism is considered by some to be the fourth-largest religion in the world, behind Christianity, Islam and Hinduism, but in some countries, including China, Vietnam and North Korea, it is difficult to know how many people consider themselves to be Buddhists. Buddhist beliefs have also influenced Western Read more

About woods Most hardwood trees grow in hot climates, especially in tropical areas.  Much of the hardwood found in Chinese furniture, then, was not native to China but was introduced to the country through trade.  It is not only the beauty of the wood that gives Chinese furniture its value, however.  It is treasured for the meticulous craftsmanship, joinery and design that went into the pieces, as well as its cultural significance.   In contrast, for example, new and old furniture pieces found in Vietnam and made of the world’s most valuable wood, Zitan, can be purchased Read more