Suzhou classical woodcarving originates from southeastern China and stands as one of the finest representations of traditional Chinese woodworking. Characterized by its graceful lines, precise textures, and subtle elegance, it is often found in architecture, furniture, Buddhist icons, and scholarly objects.

With a legacy spanning centuries, Suzhou woodcarving combines carving, hollowing, inlay, and joinery. The most iconic forms—relief carving, openwork, and full-round carving—showcase precision and grace. Each piece reflects careful material selection, refined composition, and masterful execution, embodying an understated yet distinguished beauty.

At THE ZHAI, we work with master woodcarvers who uphold time-honored methods, reinterpreting this traditional art with a modern design language. Every piece is handmade, fusing tactile quality with poetic intention—crafted to be both functional and timeless.

Known as the “Holy Grail of Weaving,” kesi silk weaving dates back to the Tang Dynasty, with Suzhou—historically known as Wumen—being its principal center. Renowned for its intricate techniques, rich colors, and delicate designs, Wumen Kesi was once reserved for imperial courts.

Kesi is unique for its “continuous warp, interrupted weft” technique—each color of the weft is hand-inserted and cut off at each pattern edge, allowing for unparalleled precision and texture. The process is labor-intensive; a single inch can take days or even weeks to complete.

Wumen Kesi is more than a craft—it embodies both literati elegance and imperial majesty. At THE ZHAI, we reintroduce Kesi into contemporary living spaces. Preserving its noble spirit while infusing modern aesthetics, our pieces are made to be displayed, worn, and passed down as living heritage.