Material:silk and gauze

Origin:Beijing

Craft:handmade by traditional craftsmen


Beijing silk figurines originated in the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127) and have a history of more than 1,000 years. Silk figurines produced in Beijing are a Chinese traditional handicraft. Folk cloth-pinpricked and color-pricked toys and other handicrafts are all closely connected with handcrafting silk figurines.

In terms of materials, the heads of foreign figurines are made of gesso, clay and wood, while Beijing silk figurines are all made of Chinese silk from head to toe -- their facial expressions, clothing and postures all tinged with the Chinese flavor.

Beijing silk figurines usually represent young men and women in Chinese folktales, traditional dramas and ethnic dancers. The subjects are primaryly characters from folk stories loved by China's common people, including ancient beauties, dramatic figurines and modern dancers.

The making of the figurines involves a dozen steps, including sculpting, painting, designing clothing and props, and arranging the hair and headgears. Each step requires sophisticated techniques and ingenious craftsmanship. Usually, the face and hands of a silk figurine are made of natural silk, while the other parts are made from fine silk cloth.

From head to toe, inside and out, only top quality Chinese silk and spun gauzes are used to make these craftworks.

The graceful and colorful Beijing silk figurines are exquisitely made, each with a different expression, bright colors and an elegant style. They are not only a rare specimen for indoor ornamentation, but also a stereoscopic piece for understanding Chinese history, local conditions and Tailor-mades. For a long time, Beijing silk figurines have been greatly valued and highly appreciated as collector's items.

Artistic & Historical Background:   Listen to it

This artwork is a handmade Beijing silk doll named "Drunken Beauty Yang Guifei".

It showcases an art form in traditional Chinese culture, which is the making of exquisite dolls using silk.

These dolls usually have rich details and exquisite craftsmanship, representing the essence of ancient Chinese culture.

The name "Drunken Beauty Yang Guifei" implies that the doll depicts the famous beauty Yang Guifei during the Tang Dynasty.

She is one of the most renowned female figures in Chinese history, known for her beauty and talents.

Her image frequently appears in literature, paintings, and sculptures, becoming a part of Chinese culture.

The process of making this doll requires meticulous handcrafting and patience.

Starting from selecting suitable silk materials, it goes through several steps such as cutting, sewing, and decorating to finally present a lifelike image.

This type of handicraft not only has ornamental value but also carries the maker's efforts and love for traditional culture.

By appreciating and studying these cultural artworks, we can better understand Chinese history and culture.

They are not just pieces of art but also witnesses of history and inheritors of culture.

They allow us to feel the wisdom and creativity of ancient people and provide us with a way to communicate with the past.

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