Our Craft

Mongolian Cashmere

Produced by Mongolian goats that are born in the Chinese region known for its hostile climes, Mongolian cashmere is recognised as one of the most treasured in the world. These animals have a thick coat with very long fur that is then sheared every spring, revealing a very fine and soft down. Nomadic shepherds shear the finest down to obtain from 250 to 300 grams of extremely valuable cashmere. Mongolian cashmere is in fact considered one of the most treasured and sought-after materials in the fashion world, and SHANGHAI TANG uses it as a primary material for luxury scarves, sweaters, and sweatshirts.

Silk

A symbol of wisdom, wealth and China’s beauty, silk was once under the monopoly of Chinese emperors. To protect the secrets behind creating and producing this majestic fabric, its production was continually overseen by the emperors and high-level businessmen, who became increasingly wealthier following the expansion of the silk market through Persia, Europe and North Africa, along what would be later called the “Silk Road”. The deeply evocative SHANGHAI TANG silks are the perpetuation of this art that spans millennia, merging contemporary design and the splendour and majesty of Ancient China.

Delicate Embroidery

The ancient technique of basing embroidery on the art of painting led to the creation of the most exquisite designs, manifesting in the form of Imperial robes on which dragons and other creatures entwine. Embroidery further developed into one of the most significant aesthetic traditions in China. The fine craft of embroidery continues to inspire contemporary fashion designers, adorning SHANGHAI TANG’s ready-to wear and accessories.

Chinese Ceramics

Chinese bone china production has its origins in the Tang dynasty and reached its high point in the Song dynasty, when the Five Great Kilns“Ru, Ding, Guan, Jun and Ge” were used to produce the most valuable Chinese ceramics. Little by little, it was transported along the Silk Road, which resulted in bone china becoming the chinoiserie par excellence in the Western world.

Lacquerware

Lacquered wood, that has its origins in the Shang dynasty when lacquer was obtained from sumac, plays a key role in the creation of Chinese decorative objects such as furniture, musical instruments and jewellery boxes. Its pearlescent sheen has made lacquered wood a veritable luxury item, that over time has been decorated and embellished with precious and semi-precious stones, Chinese jade, pearls and coral of every kind. In keeping with the tenets of the brand’s identity, the SHANGHAI TANG lacquered wood combines unique designs and vibrant colours with a tradition of luxury spanning millennia.

Cloisonné

Chinese cloisonné can be traced back to Yuan Dynasty and is a unique art form that combines Chinese culture with Asian aesthetic values. The production of cloisonné involves highly complex and sophisticated techniques and with its delicate design, vibrant colours and refined style, cloisonné was used exclusively by the Imperial families as a symbol of wealth. SHANGHAI TANG has reinterpreted some of the most exquisite art of the cloisonné craftsmen to create jewellery pieces and boxes that represent elegant luxury.

Glass

A refined and minimalist glass often goes through complex processes and is crafted by hand. Only exquisite craftsmanship and delicate materials can achieve the standard of being "crystal clear". SHANGHAI TANG's glass products are meticulously crafted using high-quality artificial crystal glass and adorned with artistic patterns, adding an elegant and luxurious touch to glassware.