A close up of the domed lid which features a map of Gulangyu Island and egrets. (Photo/CGTN)
It is also known as "Piano Island" as its piano ownership per capita ranks first nationwide – an estimated 600 of the instruments are squeezed on a 1.88-square-kilometer area with a population of around 20,000.
But how to appropriately use these local symbols on tableware for a state banquet posed a great challenge to Huang.
"It is a state-level event, which means we need to demonstrate traditional Chinese culture," Huang said, explaining that he chose the blue and white colors as they are very common on traditional china items and at the same time portray sea features.
"The piece of golden pattern under the lid is in the shape of Gulangyu's map," Huang said, pointing at a serving dish with domed lid, which also features the pattern of the egret, the bird of the city.
Shakers for salt and pepper and bottles of soy sauce and vinegar are also inspired by the architecture dotting the island.
