The National Taiwan Craft Research and Development Institute (NTCRI) has announced antique porcelain replica artisan Hsu Chao-tsung (許朝宗) as the recipient of the 2025 National Crafts Achievement Award, which is Taiwan’s highest honor in the crafts community, recognizing his outstanding accomplishments and profound contributions to the creation, research, and promotion of pottery art.
Hsu began his career at China Art Ceramic (市拿陶瓷) in 1978 in Yingge District, New Taipei City. At that time, Taiwan’s pottery industry was primarily export-oriented, and Yingge was renowned for everyday ceramics and antique porcelain replicas. Against this backdrop, Hsu mastered a wide range of ceramic techniques while actively studying diverse sources to refine his craft. In 1980, he became independent, dedicating himself to innovation and creative breakthroughs.
In addition to elevating the art of antique porcelain replicas to new heights, Hsu has been deeply committed to education, offering pottery courses at high schools and universities across Taiwan.
Over the years, he has received numerous accolades, including the Grand Prize of the Traditional and Contemporary Ceramics Creation Competition, the Senior Craftsmanship Excellence Award from the Ministry of Education, and the Cultural Association Medal from the Ministry of Culture.