Cao Lizhen (曹丽珍)

Title: Senior Folk Craftswoman (高级工艺师)

Location: Jianyang, Fujian Province
Specialty: Jian Zhan (建盏) – Oil Spot, Hare’s Fur, Yohen, and “Butterfly Dance” glazes

Cao Lizhen in her studio

Cao Lizhen grew up immersed in Jian ware culture. From a young age, she developed a deep love for Jianzhan and has devoted years to refining her skills. Her dedication to preserving tradition is matched by bold experimentation with glaze effects and vessel form.

Her works are known for their iron-like clay bodies, classical glazes, and crystal-clear, luminous finishes. She is recognized as a senior craft artist and praised for balancing heritage and personal expression.

Artist’s Reflection

“To live quietly, to nourish life with intention.
To create elegant and comfortable vessels for tea lovers.
To seek peace within, return to nature, and savor serenity in each sip.
A single square inch of clay… a life lived differently.”

– Cao Lizhen

Featured Works

蝶舞 (Butterfly Dance)
Glaze that shimmers like wings in flight.

佛肚 (Buddha Belly)
Classic rounded form with radiant glaze.

油滴双面釉
Metallic brilliance inside and out.

Butterfly Dance Teaware

蝶舞回风
Swirling glaze in an elegant fairness pitcher.

蝶舞公道盖碗
Balanced and brilliant in both form and color.

Recognized under China’s National Intangible Cultural Heritage for Jian Zhan craftsmanship.