2026

Design Awards Gold Winner - HUNAN NEW CENTURY CERAMICS CO.,LTD.

Guojiao 1573·Horse Stepping on Clouds Bottle

Entrant

HUNAN NEW CENTURY CERAMICS CO.,LTD.

Category

Beverage - Spirits: Luxury

Client's Name

Country / Region:

China

Guojiao 1573 · Horse Stepping on Clouds is a profound fusion of 400 years of intangible brewing heritage and the cultural DNA of the Tang Dynasty. Centered on the "Horse"—a spiritual symbol of ambition and prosperity—the design translates the vigorous posture of the Tang Sancai galloping horse into a contemporary vessel. It is a tribute to an era of upward mobility and self-confidence. This is not merely a container for high-end Baijiu; it is a visual reconstruction of Oriental aesthetics and the collective memory of the Silk Road civilization. Breaking traditional boundaries, the bottle's silhouette embodies the ancient Chinese philosophy of "Tian Yuan Di Fang" (Round Sky and Square Earth). The outer circular frame represents the infinite cosmos, while the inner square base integrates the "Yuan Bao" (ingot) form, symbolizing the accumulation and legacy of wealth. The interplay between geometric order and fluid curves creates a bridge between historical depth and modern vitality. This innovative hollow structure imbues the vessel with a sculptural quality, breathing new life into traditional cosmology through contemporary minimalism. Distinct from conventional liquor bottle designs, this piece delves into the aesthetic soul of Tang Sancai (Tri-color glaze). The design captures the horse in a moment of spirited momentum—arched back and flowing tail—using a fluid, linear sculptural style to outline a sense of "readiness for action." As a testament to the cultural exchange of the ancient Silk Road, the integration of these elements provides the brand with an open, inclusive, and international perspective, transforming the 400-year heritage of Guojiao 1573 into a cultural icon with global resonance. The color palette is deeply rooted in national aesthetic preferences. Using a vibrant and saturated "China Red" as the base, it symbolizes national prestige, prosperity, and joy. This is complemented by dazzling gold accents and traditional cloud patterns, creating a texture of extreme luxury. The harmony between red and gold is not only a homage to the four centuries of living history behind Guojiao 1573 but also a visual manifestation of the brand’s enduring vitality through the passage of time.

Credits

LI HANG, CHEN CHUNYING
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