Chaoshan is a coastal region in eastern Guangdong province which borders Fujian province and, over the course of centuries, has cultivated a unique language and culture. The carving of intricate wood objects is an artistic heritage of the area, awing people with its master craftsmanship, gilt layers and vivid colors.

A Universe of Sculpting, an exhibition that will run through Sept 20 at the National Museum of China, shows a selection of vintage articles of furniture and decorations that exemplify the refinement of Chaoshan wood carving techniques.

The objects on show are taken from the collections of several museums in Guangdong and present a variety of intriguing sculpting skills that generations of artisans have created out of pieces of fine wood. They beautify people's homes and the diverse patterns reflect the lifestyles held dear to local people as well as illustrate folk tales and stories mentioned in classic Chinese texts.