Emperor Qianlong, an avid art patron, was also active in promoting this artistic paper. On show are two majestic examples from his reign, from the Palace Museum's collection: a piece of pink paper featuring subtle cloud patterns outlined in gold, for daily use; and a red square sheet depicting four golden dragons chasing a fireball in the center, for the monarch to write the character fu (blessing) during Chinese New Year celebrations.

In the early 20th century, renowned ink artist Qi Baishi also illustrated huajian for himself and his friends. In 1933, Lu Xun and his scholar friend Zheng Zhenduo coproduced Beiping Jianpu (Collection of Letter Papers from Beiping — Beijing was once called Beiping), which cataloged exquisite works by renowned artists of the time and made by reputed studios, thereby honoring aesthetic sensibilities and the spirit of craftsmanship.

The distinctive huajian art on paper corresponds to the saying, "zhiduan qingchang", meaning the paper is limited in space, while the words produce sound resonance.

"Indeed, the beauty of huajian will never fade, and its true essence will endure,"Wu says.

Contact the writer at linqi@chinadaily.com.cn