Plaques have a very long history in China. Historical sites, old shops and famous old houses all have a variety of plaques, including those given by the emperor and those inscribed by celebrities. Although the contents of plaques are various, most of them are famous sayings. The plaques are all carved from good wood, not only with exquisite calligraphy, but also with black gold characters, as well as plaques painted in big blue, red and brown. Some plaques are still carved and then affixed with real gold foil, and some are even inlaid with ivory, animal bones and shells to make them more precious.