Guo Wutian works on a porcelain sculpture. [Photo/taihainet.com]

Porcelain sculpture, popular in southern Fujian province, is an intangible art form which is decorated by pasting shells and shards of porcelain attached to the surface.

Guo Wutian, a craftsman in Fujian's Xiamen, has been keen on producing porcelain sculptures for more than 30 years.

According to Guo, the subject matter his sculptures varies from plants and animals to figures from Chinese mythology and Fujian folktales.

"Creating flowers and plants is the easiest," he said.

"Making figures and animals is much harder. It usually takes years to master the technique."

Guo also said the sculptures are frequently used on the ridges, window frames, and doors of temples and larger residences. They are often used in conjunction with Fujian's traditional swallowtail roofs.

"The craft requires the craftsman to be careful and patient. A craftsman often needs to work on the roof for seven or eight hours, so many people can't stand it," Guo added.

Because of the rough working conditions, as well as modern technologies which have been replacing traditional handicrafts, the traditional culture now faces a big challenge.

Guo hopes to pass on his skills, and for more young people to get involved in porcelain sculptures.