Chinese art by medium and technique

Xiao Yan, Martial Emperor of Liang, ca. 700 AD, National Palace Museum, Taipei.

Much traditional Chinese art was made for the imperial court, often to be then redistributed as gifts. As well as Chinese painting, sculpture and Chinese calligraphy, there are a great range of what may be called decorative or applied arts. Chinese fine art is distinguished from Chinese folk art, which differs in its style and purpose. This article gives an overview of the many different applied arts of China.