Future carved out of traditions of the past

Seal carving, an integration of calligraphy, composition and the handiwork of the engraver

But with industry booming and society now running at a faster pace, handcrafted works are being replaced by those made by machines and the charm of the old craft is no longer in demand.

Seal carving, an integration of calligraphy, composition and the handiwork of the engraver

And among all the difficulties and worries these craftsmen face is one of inheritance as young people prefer something that can make money easier, Zhong said.

Spending time to learn how to make enamelware, he said, is certainly not their best bet.

They have to know complicated processes such as base-hammering, copper-strip inlay, enamel-filling, soldering, polishing gilding and many other small steps in enamel-crafting, each requiring extreme patience, precision and perseverance, Zhong said.

"The names of these processes alone may frighten young people," he said.

Wang Guanqin, an experienced imperial-style shoemaker who has taught several young people the art, is worried they need to learn more, and understand better, about traditional culture to enable them to inherit the craft from her.

Batik

"It is not only about learning how to make shoes," she said. "The essence of learning the traditional craft is to inherit the Chinese culture, which requires them to spend more time on our culture."

But there is a paradox. Young people are required to spend much time and energy at the start, but will not be financially rewarded for their efforts for many years.

Back at the ivory carving factory, Chai told the five applicants during the interview: "Many of your classmates may make far more money in a year or two, and you may feel embarrassed at class parties."

Chai, who has devoted himself to ivory carving for more than 30 years, felt relieved when nobody pulled out.

Bai Jie, a furniture designer, said he applied because of his interest and money is not the problem.

But Chai wondered how long Bai's interest would last. "It's a lonely career. You'll have to endure it," Chai said.