The entrance of the Temple of Guan Yu, a deity worshipped for his loyalty and righteousness in Chinese culture, in Dongshan County, Zhangzhou City, south China's Fujian Province. [Photo/VCG]

Porcelain inlay originated and rose to fame in southern China, specifically the southern part of Fujian Province and the Chaozhou-Shantou region of Guangdong Province. The technique, also known as "porcelain carving," "glued porcelain" and "porcelain collage," is often used for roof decoration.

Here is how it works. Bricks and tiles are trimmed and arranged to form a framework — sometimes iron wires are added to reinforce it. Mortar made from a mixture of materials like lime, brown sugar and coarse paper is put around the framework. Together they are molded into shapes of flowers or auspicious animals such as crane, dragon and phoenix. Colored porcelain is then cut into small pieces and inlaid outside, for its shiny glaze and curved surface can make the decorative patterns more vivid.