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Clay Figure Zhang

Written by Administrator Friday, 04 September 2009 13:41

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泥人张

The Talking Figurines

Clay figure Zhang is one of the most important folk arts in Tianjin, created by the celebrated native artist Zhang Mingshan.

Already in its fourth generation of creations dating as far back as the Qing Dynasty, Zhang’s figurines are famous for depicting with extreme vivacity and realism traditionally Chinese everyday life scenes. It is said that all it took for Zhang Mingshan to create a sculpture was to merely sit with random people or friends, grab the mud and start molding it while engaging in lively conversations. He also depicted scenes from the main Chinese literally classics such as the “Dream of the Red Chamber” or the “Romance of the Three Kingdoms”.

The splendor of the clay figures comes from the perfectly shaped sculptures with authentic pragmatism. A look at one of the figurines amazes for the power they have to let appreciators travel to the times they depict.

Usually with no more than 20 or 30cm, historic figures, palace maids and common people are made with perfect postures and character expressions, whether it’s a child playing or an imperial servant preparing tea.

Collected nationally and worldwide by art galleries, celebrities and figurines enthusiasts, it is identified as one of China’s most excellent art legacies, also proudly present at the Tianjin Museum.

Clay figure Zhang’s workshop is in Tianjin and employees 46 artists, a few of them famous all over China. In fact, many were the awards and mentions that the little lively figurines already had the honor of receiving.

Aware of its importance regarding Tianjin’s recognition, both workshop and shop are committed to high standards of quality, continuously faithful to improvement patterns, foreseeing a long-lasting legacy.

In China, it is very common to offer these painted sculptures to friends and family. Used for decoration purposes, it might also be a traditional and beautiful souvenir to art lovers and to the ones back home.

Address

Clay Figure Zhang

No. 17, Gu Wenhua Jie, Nankai District

泥人张

南开区古文化街17号

Telephone

+86 22 2727 5081

Business Hours
Everyday from 9am to 6pm

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