#Blanc de Chine #Gubbio #Maiolica

A Cultural Fusion Through Art

The recent grand opening of an art exhibition titled "The Road of White Porcelain - From China's Dehua to Italy's Gubbio" in Gubbio, Italy, marks a significant milestone in the long-standing cultural exchange along the ancient Silk Road. This exhibition, launched on November 14, 2025, features an exquisite collection of fine porcelain from Dehua, a city in China's Fujian province renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship. The event not only highlights Dehua's rich ceramic heritage but also re-establishes connections with Italian artistic traditions, specifically the maiolica from Gubbio, a city celebrated for its colorful pottery and dynamic craftsmanship.

The Significance of Dehua and Gubbio

Dehua has been a pivotal center in Chinese ceramic culture for centuries, famed for its pure, delicate white porcelain often referred to as "Blanc de Chine." This style is characterized by its smooth finish and elegant simplicity, qualities that have captivated pottery enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. On the other hand, Gubbio showcases a vibrant tradition of maiolica, a tin-glazed pottery known for its bright colors and intricate designs. The fusion of these two distinct ceramics illustrates the harmony between Chinese and Italian artistic expressions, creating a dialogue that transcends geographical boundaries.

Wu Zhipu, the county chief of Dehua, remarked during an interview that the ties between these two historic cities are rooted in a shared cultural memory. He highlighted the legend of Marco Polo, who is often credited with bringing Dehua's porcelain to Europe, establishing a connection that has thrived through the ages. This mutual heritage sets a robust foundation for renewed collaboration in the present day.

A Platform for Cultural Exchange

The art exhibition features 41 works by leading masters from Dehua, showcasing both classical interpretations and contemporary perspectives. The pieces blend the classic "Chinese white" with modern aesthetics, illustrating the subtleties of Dehua's elegance alongside Gubbio's vibrant traditions. This artistic exchange serves as a reminder of the importance of ceramics not just in trade but in fostering dialogue between cultures.

It is noteworthy that this year celebrates the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Italy. As cultural exchanges intensify, Wu expresses hope that the "Blanc de Chine porcelain from Dehua" will attract greater attention across Europe, further cementing these ties.

A Promising Partnership

In anticipation of the exhibition, representatives from Dehua and Gubbio signed a letter of intent to establish a partnership aimed at enhancing cultural cooperation. This collaboration is expected to deepen exchanges in areas such as culture, industries, and logistics. They plan to implement initiatives like the