Duoyunxuan
Time-Honored BrandDuoyunxuan · Shanghai · Founded 1900
Duoyunxuan, a century-old Shanghai art institution, is renowned for its woodblock watermark printing, preserving the essence of Jiangnan culture. Since 1900, it has been a vital platform for Chinese painting and calligraphy, blending tradition with artistry.
Brand Story
Founded in 1900 during the Qing Dynasty, Duoyunxuan began as a stationery shop on Henan Road in Shanghai, dealing in letter papers and fans. Over time, it evolved into a cultural institution integrating art trading, woodblock printing, and publishing. The name 'Duoyun' derives from a literary allusion in the New Book of Tang, symbolizing the fragrance of ink. With support from renowned Shanghai school artists like Wu Changshuo and Wang Yiting, Duoyunxuan became a hub for artistic exchange. Its woodblock watermark technique, originating from Ming Dynasty douban and gonghua methods, can faithfully reproduce original artworks, earning the praise 'second only to the original'. Masterpieces like the 'Shizhuzhai Letter Papers' showcase the pinnacle of traditional printing. As a carrier of Jiangnan culture, Duoyunxuan has witnessed the rise and fall of the Shanghai school, promoting the dissemination and preservation of Chinese art.
“[待核]”
Signature Products
Reproductions of famous artworks using traditional techniques, remarkably lifelike and highly collectible. Prices range from hundreds to tens of thousands of RMB.
Selected Hu brushes, Hui ink sticks, Xuan paper, and Duan inkstones of superior quality, favored by calligraphy and painting enthusiasts. Prices range from hundreds to ten thousand RMB.
Publications of painting and calligraphy catalogs and art treatises, offering both academic and aesthetic value. Prices range from tens to hundreds of RMB.
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Shanghai（上海）
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Cultural Note
Duoyunxuan's woodblock watermark technique, rooted in Ming Dynasty douban and gonghua, involves dozens of steps including tracing, carving, and overprinting. Using mineral and plant pigments, it captures the essence of original brushwork. In 2008, it was inscribed on the National Intangible Cultural Heritage list, exemplifying the excellence of Chinese woodblock printing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "China Time-Honored Brand" (中华老字号)?
A China Time-Honored Brand is a designation by China’s Ministry of Commerce for brands with a long history that inherit products, craftsmanship or services across generations and have operated continuously to the present.
When was Duoyunxuan founded?
Duoyunxuan was founded in 1900, originating in Shanghai, Shanghai, primarily in the Other field.
What is the signature product of Duoyunxuan?
Its signature product is Woodblock Watermark Paintings. See the "Signature / Buy Online" section on this page for more products and shopping links.
Where can I find the official list of China Time-Honored Brands?
You can log into the MOFCOM "China Time-Honored Brand Information Management System", or browse this site’s brand directory — we have profiled 1,451 time-honored brands.
Sources / References
Brand fundamentals (founding year, heritage level, recognition batch) follow official sources such as the MOFCOM time-honored brand list. Story and encyclopedia: