Fengxiang, a county in Shaanxi Province, is well-known for its clay figurines (雕像). The craft (手艺)of making clay figurines dates back over 3i 000 years. Records show the craft appeared during the Western Zhou Dynasty and developed quickly during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The bright-colored figurines show Chinese rich history and culture.
Ancient people enjoyed buying clay figurines in the past, especially during festivals or holidays> believing the figurines would bring good luck and happiness to their families.
Different skills, such ns paper cutting, embroidering (刺绣)and painting are used to make the figurines. People make clay figurines in two ways. The first one is the mold (模具)making way—the artist creates the figurines from clay in molds. The second skill is the hand- making way—the artist shapes clay into different animals.
Old craftspeople (工匠) did their best lo pass on the craft to younger people. However, because of the rapid technological development, clay figurines have been produced in a great number of molds. That has influenced the development of the handmade objects. In 2006, the art form was added to the list of China's intangible cultural heritage (非物质文化遗产).
In recent years, the government of Fengxinng County has been trying to increase the production of clay figurines. Then the old art form becomes popular again. Along with the Chinese market, the clay figurines have sold well in many other countries such as Australia, Singapore, Japan and the United States.
