"This is a unique piece, like a god's gift," he says. "I refused several collectors, even though they offered a high price."

Zhou's earlier pieces were more colorful and "realistic," but he gradually shaped them in a more abstract and personified way.

"Before I preferred color glazes on my pieces, but now I recognize the primitive beauty of clay," Zhou says. "Succinct shape, a bit of exaggeration, plus natural materials give a deeper meaning, mixed with tradition and modernity."

It's hard to believe he created 999 St Water Buffalo with his own hands.

"Don't call me an old man," he says. "I am quite energetic and ready to accept new ideas and thoughts."

Zhou says he's ready and willing for Year of the Tiger.

"If the Ministry of Culture asks me again, I'm confident in a winning tiger (lunar 2010) and even a winning rabbit (lunar 2011)."

St Water Buffalo on show and on sale

Date: through January 31, 10am-5pm

Address: 1/F, 280 Aomen Road

Tel: 5466-1776