Huishan Clay Figurines is the most representative traditional folk art of Wuxi. It was listed in China’s first batch of National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2006, with a heritage history of more than 400 years. It is made of unique natural black clay from Huishan, Wuxi. The clay is delicate, soft and highly malleable. Through traditional handmade shaping and coloring procedures, the finished works feature bright colors and auspicious shapes, forming a unique painted sculpture art style in the Jiangnan region.
Traditional clay figurines are mainly classic auspicious images such as “Da A Fu” and traditional opera characters, carrying people’s best wishes for luck, peace and happiness. With cultural innovation, this ancient heritage is no longer limited to traditional ornaments. Designers integrate the classic shapes, colors and cultural symbols of clay figurines with modern aesthetics and daily use, launching a variety of cultural and creative products, including blind boxes, fridge magnets, keychains, bookmarks and decorative ornaments.
It perfectly inherits the authentic intangible cultural heritage craftsmanship and conforms to modern trendy aesthetics and practicality. As a distinctive urban cultural symbol of Wuxi, it is the most popular intangible cultural and creative souvenir for tourists at home and abroad for collection and gift-giving.
