Zhu Bingren (L4) and the German delegation pose for a photo beside a bronze sunflower. [Photo/Qianjiang Evening News]

Ahead of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's visit to Hangzhou, a delegation of six German diplomats toured the Jiangnan Bronze House in the historic Qinghefang area on Feb 25, learning about traditional bronze craftsmanship.

The delegation visited the Zhu Bingren Bronze Art Museum, also known as the Jiangnan Bronze House, and met with renowned molten-bronze artist and Chinese arts and crafts master Zhu Bingren. Built with more than 210 metric tons of copper and open to the public for free, the museum is a landmark showcasing the art of copper carving, a Chinese national intangible cultural heritage.

The diplomats viewed intricate works including a bronze architectural model of Leifeng Pagoda and contemporary molten-bronze creations, praising the fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation. During the visit, Zhu recalled his 2018 exhibition held at the Berlin China Cultural Center — his first solo exhibition in Europe — which introduced German audiences to the vitality of Chinese bronze art.

The visiting diplomats said the experience offered them a deeper understanding of China's traditional culture and contemporary development. Zhu expressed hope for expanded exchanges with Germany and Europe, allowing Chinese molten-bronze art to flourish through cross-cultural dialogue.

Zhu introduces bronze crops to the delegation. [Photo/Qianjiang Evening News]