Zhang Xiao Quan Scissors Forging Technique

Zhang Xiao Quan scissors date to 1663 in Hangzhou; the forging technique was inscribed on the first national ICH list in May 2006.

Traditional making involves seventy-two steps, centered on inlaying fine Longquan and Yunhe steel into wrought iron, hammering the edge, and engraving West Lake scenes and animals on the body.

One of Hangzhou's "Five Hang" products and a benchmark of China's cutlery trade, it embodies the height of Jiangnan forging and decorative craft.

The technique is passed down by the Zhang Xiao Quan house in Hangzhou.