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Press Release

Forty-Nine Union Liquor Alcoholic Beverage Packaging

A' Design Award 2024 Gold Winner in Packaging Design

22 April 2024

Forty-Nine Union Liquor Alcoholic Beverage Packaging by Yamin Zhu
Forty-Nine Union Liquor Alcoholic Beverage Packaging by Yamin Zhu
Forty-Nine Union Liquor Alcoholic Beverage Packaging by Yamin Zhu
Forty-Nine Union Liquor Alcoholic Beverage Packaging by Yamin Zhu
Forty-Nine Union Liquor Alcoholic Beverage Packaging by Yamin Zhu

Yamin Zhu · CLIENT: Forty-Nine Union Design Department

This ensemble features the white porcelain pot, hailing from the city in China, the esteemed birthplace of porcelain craftsmanship. Accompanied by the divider adorned with the motif from the illustrious Shang Dynasty, along with four shot glasses and the brush pot crafted from blue and white underglaze porcelain. They are elegantly presented within the spacious wooden box. Each element serves as a poignant representation of Chinese cultural ethos, encapsulating enduring principles of exploration, resilience and the preservation of heritage ingenuity.

Press Kit

Unique Properties
This design comprises a white porcelain pot originating from Jingdezhen, the birthplace of porcelain. It features one divider adorned with the Shang Dynasty Taotie pattern, four shot glasses, one brush pot crafted from blue and white underglaze white porcelain, and a large wooden box for packaging. Each item serves as a testament to Chinese culture, elucidating the philosophical and brand culture of Forty-nine Union. Designed to endure across generations, these products contribute to environmental preservation through their lasting legacy.
Dimensions & Packaging
Box: W 450mm x D 260mm x H 425mm
Pot: W 170mm x D 106mm x H 330mm
Divider: W 60mm x D 60mm x H 120mm
Shot glass: W 37mm x D 37mm x H 70mm
Tags
Chinese Baijiu, Oriental Aesthetics, Packaging design, Forty-nine Union
Production Technology
The central motif of the pot is the Forty-nine Union's emblematic seal character logo, encircled by ornate double Chinese dragon motifs. Adorning the reverse side is the prominent character 'Xin', symbolizing 'faith', embellished with the Taotie pattern.

The divider's design is inspired by the 'Zun' vessel shape from the Shang Dynasty, with relief decorations featuring Taotie patterns. Crafted with exquisite white porcelain and delicate gold threading, it exudes a jade-like elegance.

The meticulously carved wooden box showcases a double Chinese dragon motif in African rosewood, accented by a copper square metal at the front. Employing traditional handcrafted mortise and tenon techniques reminiscent of Ming and Qing furniture, it holds significant value for collectors.

Lastly, the brush pot, fashioned from blue and white underglaze white porcelain, is adorned with the Forty-nine Union Poem encircling its body, further enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
Design Challenge
There are two challenges in the process. The first one concerns white porcelain. The ultimate expression of white porcelain is to be as white as snow and as resonant as jade. The second challenge is the difficulty in crafting the square bottle. In pursuit of the perfect effect, we chose these two most challenging elements to complete this set of works.
Project Duration
The project started in April 2023 in Shanxi, China and finished in May 2023.
Operation Flow
This design offers a full set of tools for enjoying Chinese drinking culture. Its national treasure value and elegant design suggest it could be suitable for upscale occasions. Designed to last for generations, these products also help preserve the environment by being passed down through families.
Research
The research began with the Forty-nine Union, formed by 49 friends driven by love and sharing, all seeking a better life. The goal is to spread the drinking culture and values of the Forty-nine Union to more partners, while also presenting the Chinese philosophies of "Chinese chivalry", "loyalty", and "trust" to a wider audience. The design aim to create a set of works and artworks that can be passed down for more friends to enjoy. The research method involves collecting suggestions and data from all partners, followed by analysis, summarization, and modification. The results of the study have proven successful in achieving the initial objectives, both spreading Chinese philosophical ideas and preserving brand culture.
Inspiration
Over the past eight years, members of the Forty-nine Union have remained united by their shared faith, endeavoring to craft a collection of symbols representing value, belonging, and honor for each partner, intended to be passed down through generations. Additionally, the collection integrates ancient Oriental philosophy and aesthetics, fostering a deeper appreciation of Chinese liquor culture and bolstering confidence in Chinese culture. This reflects the original intent of the designers.
Patents
202330374354.2
202330374352.3
202330374350.4
202330374346.8

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