#Italy #Blanc de Chine #Gubbio #Italian Maiolica #Chinese Porcelain

Reviving the Silk Road: An Artistic Meeting in Gubbio

On November 14, 2025, a significant cultural event took place in the picturesque town of Gubbio, located in the Umbrian mountains of Italy. The opening of the art exhibition titled "The Road of White Porcelain—From China's Dehua to Italy's Gubbio" marks a pivotal moment in the relationship between Chinese porcelain known as Blanc de Chine and Italy's renowned maiolica.

Te-chua, a region in Fujian Province, China, is famous for its exquisite white porcelain that has been crafted for centuries. Wu Zhipu, the head of the Te-chua district, emphasized the significance of this culture in a recent interview. He noted that Te-chua is celebrated as a longstanding center for porcelain artistry while Gubbio is known for its robust tradition in maiolica—decorative earthenware characterized by colorful glazes and intricate designs. Wu remarked, "This connection between our two cultures is not just a celebration of art but a historical tie that bridges our past."

The exhibition showcases 41 masterpieces created by leading artisans from Te-chua, showcasing both traditional and contemporary aesthetics. Many pieces reflect the classic "Chinese white" while incorporating modern design elements, fostering a meaningful dialogue between the elegant simplicity of Te-chua and the vibrant traditions of Gubbio. "The ceramics on display here not only highlight our craftsmanship but echo the rich exchanges along the ancient maritime Silk Road," Wu added, linking the cultural history with modern creative expressions.

In conjunction with the exhibition, an agreement was signed to establish a partnership between Te-chua and Gubbio, further solidifying their commitment to cultural collaboration. This partnership aims to enhance cultural, industrial, and logistical exchanges, including a joint program that will facilitate the collaboration between artisans from both regions. Wu expressed optimism regarding the future of this initiative, stating, "We aim to expand our footprint in Italy by participating in prominent design events and establishing a 'Blanc de Chine porcelain from Te-chua' center here."

The presence of Chinese porcelain in renowned locations, such as the Basilica of Saint Mark in Venice, symbolizes a shared cultural heritage. According to folklore, Marco Polo transported pieces from Te-chua back to Europe, laying an early foundation for cultural exchange that endures to this day. With the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Italy reaching its 55th anniversary this year, this exhibition serves as a beacon of hope for intensified cultural exchanges across the continent.

As the bridge between the ancient Silk Road and today's globalized world, the exhibition not only showcases artistic prowess but also embodies collaborative spirit, merging historical significance with contemporary creativity—opening new doors for cultural exchange between China and Italy.

Through events like this, Te-chua and Gubbio reinforce their ties, demonstrating that art transcends geographical boundaries and promotes unity in diversity. The future is bright for these cultures as they continue to weave their stories together through artistic dialogue, exploring new avenues for collaboration and rich cultural heritage. The revival of these historic connections through art signifies a shared journey towards deeper appreciation and understanding of one another's cultural legacies.

Thus, the Silk Road arrives anew—not just as a historical trade route but as an enduring catalyst for today’s cultural interrelations.