How a restorer's childhood passion revived 500 ancient Chinese treasures

Cao Yuanyuan has spent more than ten years restoring cultural relics at the Sichuan Museum. She has repaired over 500 artifacts, ranging from ancient stone carvings to delicate celadon wares. Now, she has released a new picture book titled Hello! I'm Pang Dahai to mark its ninth anniversary. Her journey began in childhood, inspired by her father’s antique collection. This early fascination led her to study ceramic conservation. Her first restoration was a Qing Dynasty blue-and-white vase, once part of her grandmother’s dowry.

One of her most challenging projects was a Song Dynasty Longquan celadon five-tube vase. The intricate work took an entire year to complete. She has since restored national first-grade treasures and artifacts from the Han and Song dynasties.

Drawing has always played a key role in her work. It sharpened her sense of colour, deepened her understanding of materials, and honed her analytical skills. In 2018, she wrote and illustrated Draw One Little Animal Every Day. She also mentors young conservators by having them practise drawing patterns before applying them to artifacts.

Currently, she is working on an illustrated book about stray cats. She continues to collaborate with the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Cao Yuanyuan’s work bridges art and conservation. Her new picture book and ongoing projects reflect her dedication to both cultural heritage and creative expression. She remains active in restoration, education, and publishing.