Su Jiu Dong Po: Poetry and Art in Baijiu Packaging

Four bottles narrate Su Shi’s life through design and craft

Drawing from the theatrical retelling of Su Shi’s heroic life, Su Jiu Dong Po presents a set of four baijiu bottles, each symbolizing a distinct stage of the poet’s journey—from exuberant youth to contemplative twilight. The design team, led by Liandong Zhang and Xueqian Zhang, merges traditional Chinese culture with contemporary design language, creating a product that resonates with both literary and artistic sensibilities. This approach not only honors Su Shi’s enduring influence but also reimagines the relationship between literature and lifestyle products.

Each bottle in the collection is crafted from glass-crystalline white material and shaped in the elegant meiping plum vase style, echoing the refined aesthetics of Song dynasty porcelain. The bottles feature a slightly narrowed mouth and a full belly, while their surfaces are intricately carved in relief. The tactile patterns transition from detailed to sparse, mimicking the dynamic flow of a river—a motif central to Su Shi’s poetry. This design choice offers a unique sensory experience, inviting users to appreciate both the visual and physical qualities of the packaging.

What sets Su Jiu Dong Po apart is its immersive storytelling. The imagery on each bottle is closely tied to Su Shi’s poems, rendered in a blend of traditional ink painting and modern techniques. This transformation of poetic imagery into visual language allows consumers to engage with the spirit of Dongpo on multiple levels—tasting the liquor, reading the poetry, and appreciating the art. The design thus transcends mere symbolism, offering a “sense of theater that can be both observed and touched,” as described by the creators.

The project’s realization required extensive research into Su Shi’s works, Song dynasty aesthetics, and theatrical elements. The design team meticulously studied historical texts and illustrations to ensure authenticity, even revising details such as attire and embossing depth to meet food safety standards. The result is a series of bottles that not only embody the essence of Su Shi’s poetry but also adhere to modern production and safety requirements.

Su Jiu Dong Po stands as a testament to cultural transformation and craft innovation. By integrating poetry, art, and advanced manufacturing, the design fosters a deeper connection to Chinese heritage and promotes cultural confidence. Awarded Bronze in the 2025 A' Packaging Design Award, this project exemplifies how thoughtful design can elevate everyday objects into meaningful cultural artifacts, enhancing both brand identity and consumer experience.

Through its harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, Su Jiu Dong Po invites cultural consumers to savor not only fine baijiu but also the enduring legacy of one of China’s greatest poets.