The Story of Baijiu

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These illustrations were developed for “The Story of Baijiu” on DrinkBaijiu.com, a platform dedicated to presenting the history and cultural significance of Baijiu, a traditional Chinese spirit produced by the MingRiver Baijiu distillery. The project is based on historical research by Derek Sandhaus, an author and specialist in the category.

Baijiu has been part of Chinese society for thousands of years and has influenced daily life, ritual practices, art, and philosophy. The illustrations revisit these themes and trace the evolution of the drink from ancient production methods to contemporary cultural contexts.

This page documents the visual process of the project and connects history, culture, and illustration through a series of scenes developed from initial sketches to the final artwork.

LOCAL
China
DATE
August 2018
Illustration of the project cover for “The Story of Baijiu,” featuring stylized characters, bottles, and symbolic elements in a vibrant composition.

JIAHU ● 7000 BC

Illustration of a monk-like figure holding a Baijiu vessel with clouds behind him.
Illustration of a monk figure with a Baijiu cup, surrounded by symbolic circular shapes.

INVENTION OF JIU  ●  1st millennium BC

Illustration of workers pouring Baijiu from large traditional jars in a courtyard.
Illustration of multiple characters gathered around Baijiu jars in a festive environment.
Sketch of Baijiu production workers carrying jars and vessels.

Classic Age of Chinese Drinking  ●  1st millennium AD

Illustration of a large Baijiu jar beside workers in a brewing environment.
Illustration of a group celebrating with Baijiu in an outdoor setting.
Sketch showing Baijiu producers preparing jars and tools.

ARRIVAL OF DISTILLATION ● Around 13th Century

Illustration of dancers and performers carrying Baijiu jars in a lively scene.
Illustration of a dynamic crowd moving with Baijiu containers through a ceremonial gateway.
Sketch of Baijiu workers inside a detailed architectural interior.

Birth of Baijiu ● Ming Dynasty (1368–1644)

Illustration of workers preparing Baijiu jars in front of stylized mountains and clouds.
Illustration of people gathered outdoors with Baijiu cups and jars in a vibrant setting.
Sketch of Baijiu producers handling tools and vessels in a workshop.

Regionalization ● Qing and early Modern China

Illustration of several characters seated at a Baijiu table sharing drinks.
Illustration of a group of people celebrating Baijiu in a bright, open landscape.
Sketch showing workers transporting jars and interacting in an outdoor production area.

Modernization Post-1949: Following China’s Communist Revolution

Illustration featuring chefs preparing Baijiu-related dishes in a lively kitchen.
Illustration of chefs cutting and organizing food over decorated boxes.
Monochrome sketch of workers handling food and utensils in a rustic kitchen.

Globalization ● Now

Colorful illustration of a bartender preparing cocktails while interacting with guests.
Vibrant illustration of a bartender serving drinks to two people at a colorful bar.
009_2.webp: Sketch drawing of a lively bar with people serving and drinking.
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