#Spain #Chinese Crafts #Dehua Porcelain #Blanc de Chine #Talavera de la Reina

Blanc de Chine Exhibition: A Cultural Exchange Between East and West

On November 11, 2025, the vibrant city of Talavera de la Reina, Spain, became the host for the grand opening of the "Blanc de Chine: Dehua Porcelain" exhibition. This event marks a significant cultural interchange between two prominent ceramic centers, bringing together the expertise of Dehua from China and Talavera from Spain, both known for their rich traditions and craftsmanship.

Nestled in Fujian province, Dehua is one of the historical cradles of Chinese ceramic culture. During the exhibition's opening ceremony, Wu Zhipu, the mayor of Dehua, emphasized the essence of Dehua porcelain. He stated, "The craftsmanship has been passed down from master to apprentice for generations." This dedication and tradition have solidified Dehua's reputation in the global ceramics landscape.

Tradition Meets Innovation

Dehua currently boasts over 6,000 skilled artisans, including the renowned master Lian Deli. His notable work, titled "Mito," exemplifies the pinnacle of porcelain-making with its remarkable thickness of just 0.2 millimeters, setting a milestone in Dehua's fine porcelain technique. Despite the advancements in technology, Lian pointed out that traditional methods remain irreplaceable. "Digital tools and precise firing controls enable us to create finer, lighter, and more transparent forms. However, the final refinement still relies on decades of manual labor and experience."

Global Reach and Future Aspirations

With its rich heritage and innovative approach, Dehua porcelain is now exported to more than 190 countries and regions. The county is home to over 4,500 ceramic companies and achieved an impressive industrial output of 60.2 billion yuan between January and October 2025. The establishment of the "Blanc de Chine" brand in Spain is part of Dehua's strategy to utilize the Spanish market as a gateway to penetrate deeper into Europe, Africa, and Latin America.

In a move to strengthen ties, Dehua and Talavera de la Reina have agreed to establish a sister-city relationship aimed at enhancing cooperation in culture, commerce, and ceramic crafts. Wu expressed hopes for developing promotional centers abroad for Blanc de Chine, inviting Spanish partners to visit China to experience Dehua’s porcelain legacy first-hand.

Incorporating Cultural Heritage and Tourism

Looking towards the future, Dehua aims to further integrate its ceramic heritage with cultural tourism, offering immersive experiences that allow visitors to connect directly with the essence of "Blanc de Chine." As the exhibition continues, it stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of porcelain craftsmanship and the possibilities that lie in collaborative cultural exchanges.

The Blanc de Chine exhibition not only honors the rich history of Dehua but also acts as a catalyst for future cooperation and cultural appreciation between nations, showcasing how cultural heritage can transcend boundaries and unite people through shared art forms.