Types of wine jars

In the past, jars holding Shaoxing Yellow Rice Wine were not only fine vessels storing wine, but also great handicrafts embodying wine culture. Usually, they can be classified into two types.The most common one without any decoration, as described above, is painted with white wash and sealed with mud. Jars of this type are often produced in large numbers.What distinguish this type of jars are their reticence, primitiveness and simplicity.Jars of this kind can be easily carried around in nets fabricated with bamboo splits or hemp ropes or red cloth straps. Therefore, they are much loved by people in the street.During every selling season, they are often out of stock. And they are also very popular overseas. There is another type of jars which is not only a vessel but also a fine work of art. Being named after the colored carvings on its exterior surface, it was commonly called diaohua'. However, because this phrase, with the verb diao ('to carve') placed ahead of hua ('flower ), reads really awkward, people of later generations simply reversed them and changed it into 'Huadiao', which sounds loud and clear. Because of its exquisite package and good name, people begin to take Huadiao' for granted.Because its value in artistic appreciation far exceeds the wine itself, and the influence of the jar far exceeds that of the wine, this type of jar makes great exhibits, collectors treasures and wonderful gifts. Nowadays, in Gu Yue Long Shan, it has become a characteristic performance to show people how the paintings and carvings on Huadiao jars are created. People can view the performance and even participate as a craftsman. Customizable service is also provided, which turns out to be warmly welcomed.