| Unique, High-Quality Clay Figurines For Shoppers In Beijing |
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China is one of the first countries in the world where clay was used to create figurines. Archaeological evidence suggests this art started over 10,000 years ago, during the Neolithic period. Though originally a primitive art form, it developed to a very high level in the Tang dynasty, driven in part by people's need to build figures for Buddhist temples. When in Beijing, don't forget to go shopping for some exquisite, cute figurines in the amazing local shops.
China is one of the first countries in the world where clay was used to create figurines. Archaeological evidence suggests this art started over 10,000 years ago, during the Neolithic period. Though originally a primitive art form, it developed to a very high level in the Tang dynasty, driven in part by people's need to build figures for Buddhist temples. When in Beijing, don't forget to go shopping for some exquisite, cute figurines in the amazing local shops. Clay figurines were used for different purposes by ancient people. It is generally believed the figurines made in prehistoric times were mainly used for ceremonies. Later in the Han dynasty, clay figurines were used as burial gifts. Nowadays clay figurines are usually used as toys or decorations by people who are attracted by their exquisite designs and vivid expressions. Most of the major styles of clay figurines have hundreds of years of history. They were developed in different regions of China, and have their own unique characteristics. Among them, "Clay Figurine Zhang" from the city of Tianjin and Huishan figurines from the city of Wuxi are probably the most famous. "Clay Figruine Zhang"is a famous, time-honored brand of clay figurines. It was started 180 years ago by a master clay artist Zhang Mingshan. He created a number of famous figurines based on characters from classic novels and popular plays. It is said that his skill was so great, he could create a beautiful, lifelike clay figurine during a conversation based on the person he was talking to. The figurines he made were extraordinary works of art with postures so beautiful, and expressions so vivid, some said they could feel the presence of life when they admire them. Zhang's success came from his astute observation of people. His apprentices were also taught to carefully observe people in order to create great work. Now there are a number of artisans who still use his skills to make gorgeous Zhang-style clay figurines for art fans around the world. Huishan figurinesare produced in Wuxi, Jiangsu province. For 400 years, the people living around Huishan Mountain in Wuxi have been creating unique, beautiful clay figurines with strong local characteristics. In its heyday, more than 200 workshops were built in this area to produce figurines for both ordinary people and royal family members. Both Emperor Qianlong and Empress Dowager Cixi, two of the most famous figures of the Qing dynasty, liked Huishan figurines. This style of figurines is so popular because they have vivid expressions and incredibly cute designs. A famous design is called "Da A Fu," which features two chubby children, a boy and a girl, each holding a tiny lion. This design was made the official mascot of China International Tourism Year in 1992. Fengxiang figurines from Shaanxi province, Baigou figurines from Hebei province, Gaomi figurines from Shandong provinces, Junxian figurines and Huaiyang figurines from Henan province, and Beijing figurines are also sought by many. The process of making clay figurines can be long or short, depending on the different styles. But generally there are these steps: body-making, molding, firing, drying, and polishing. The material used to make most Chinese clay figurines is a clay that has a viscous and delicate quality. In recent years some people started to use machines to produce figurines, but the best ones with the most beautiful details are still created by hand. In the local shops of Beijing, there are beautiful clay figurines made in every local style. But in order to find those with the highest quality and most beautiful designs, you should find a personal shopper to help you get to the right places. More information: A. Lao has written about Chinese arts and crafts for years. He assists a Beijing personal shopper who helps tourists find unique Chinese items. Sometimes he personally tailors shopping trips in Beijing.
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