Huishan clay figurines made in Wuxi in Jiangsu Province are one of the famous folk arts in China for its succinct design, bright color and vivid image.It is said that Huishan clay figurines have a history of over 1,000 years, originating in the Northern and Southern Dynasties Period (386-581). The little clay figures are not only very cute and colorful, but also full of cultural connotations in them.
The black and sticky local soil has been used to make clay figurines, and the process has three steps. There are mainly two types of the figurines, one molded and the other made by hand. The molded clay figures are relatively coarse and good as toys for kids. The hand-made figures are more delicate, creative and vivid, having a variety of characters that are largely based on traditional Chinese operas and the rich Chinese culture.
