Study of Grey Sculpture Art in Zigong Xiqin Guild Hall

Abstract

During the Qing Dynasty, the economy of the Zigong salt fields flourished, and the Shaanxi merchants established the Xiqin Guild Hall, a quintessential Qing-era edifice, which holds significant historical importance in the annals of Zigong’s salt industry. The Zigong Xiqin Guild Hall, an architectural manifestation borne from the management needs of the salt industry, emerged during the heyday of Zigong's salt trade prosperity. Encompassing a wealth of architectural artistry such as stone carvings, wood carvings, and plaster reliefs closely intertwined with salt culture, it embodies the aspirational pursuits of the Shaanxi salt merchants in Zigong during this era, as well as the artistic achievements of the Qing Dynasty's salt field craftsmen. This paper examines the plaster relief and sculpture art of the Zigong Xiqin Guild Hall from an aesthetic perspective, analyzing the socio-economic context of the salt industry era that gave rise to this art, the techniques employed, the spiritual ethos, artistic forms, and stylistic elements. The study aims to provide practical experience for the preservation of intangible cultural heritage, such as plaster reliefs and sculptures, within Zigong’s salt industry history.