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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.

No one knows exactly how the clay figurines made in the prehistoric period were used. Some believe they had religious and ceremonial significance. Han dynasty Chinese mainly used clay figurines for burials. After Buddhism was introduced to China, the need for clay figures increased exponentially. Nowadays clay figurines have become a popular decoration for both Chinese and overseas visitors, who are attracted by their beautiful designs and cute expressions.

China has many styles of clay figurines that are famous for their charming characteristics. Among them, “Clay Figurine Zhang” from Tianjin and Huishan figurines from Wuxi are the most famous.

“Clay Figurine Zhang” is a well-known brand of clay figurines created by a master clay sculptor Zhang Mingshan in Tianjin. During his life time, Zhang made a number of clay figurines based on characters from ancient novels and 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.

Most of the Chinese clay figurines are made of a kind of rigid, strong clay. The method of production varies from one style to the next, but generally it is a process that consists of body-making, molding, firing, drying, and polishing. Even though there are mass-produced figurines made by machines, the ones made by hands have the best quality.

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.