Records indicate the craft of creating Huishui's oil-dyed items dates back more than 2,000 years. The craft originated during the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD), and the craft was at the height of its popularity during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). During the dynasty, the exquisite works of art were offered as tributes to members of the imperial families. In 2008, the craft of creating the Liquidambar oil-dyed items was added to the list of the country's national intangible cultural heritage.

During the past two millennia, craftspeople have created numerous exquisite Liquidambar oil-dyed works, whose patterns vividly portray animals, plants, flowers and/or scenes. Various geometrical figures are common patterns on the works.