Shiwan ceramic sculptures are closely linked to architecture. In order to cater to the decoration of temples and other buildings, the making of flowerpots, fishbowls, window grills, and screen walls developed rapidly. To meet the demand of religious activities, large amounts of sculptures of icons and gods of gates were produced. Besides being artistically valuable, Shiwan ceramic sculptures also possess high practical usefulness.

To make one sculpture, six steps have to be followed: design, refine the pug, shape, ornament, glaze and calcine. There is no sure formula for the duration of calcination; it all depends on master's experience. Only a skillful master knows how to use fire of different temperatures on the calcination of different parts of the sculpture.