Traditional culture given a modern twist

"The jar looked robust and featured images of lotus flowers and cranes in its design — all rendered in an exquisite indigo blue," he said.

Su next studied and took note of the designs of various ancient vessels in different styles displayed at museums across Beijing.

"The designs blew my mind, and were extremely detailed — with the work completed in one go by ancient craftsmen," Su said, adding that some designs depicting five dragons require long-term training.