Miniature artwork

Nevertheless, a modern generation of craftsmen is tempted to restore and further refine this mysterious, superb skill. Among those investing constant efforts is Suzhou-based jade carver Yu Ting, 51, whose journey began when he discovered a book on Hindustani jade and an eggshell-thin fragment at the beginning of the century.

"Historical records say that vessels with a thickness of less than 1.6 millimeters could be called eggshell jade but, thanks to improved tools, we can now make them thinner than 1 mm, even as thin as 0.5 to 0.6 mm," he says.

In his studio in western Suzhou, where his jade pieces are displayed, he arranges lights behind these vessels, so visitors can observe the thin surface with its delicately carved patterns, and the glossy, even inner walls.