Clay figurines represent another type of folk art in China since they are much admired for their vivid and amusing expressions. Since the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), clay figurines have been best noted for their imaginative design and exquisite craftsmanship. The principal material for making such figurines is porcelain clay, and Wuxi of Anhui Province has supplied the fine, sticky clay needed for molding the figurines from Huishan Mountain for thousands of years. The finished products are very durable and will not crack for many years.

The delightful clay figurines from Huishan are hand-painted sculptures in an exaggerated, romantic style and are extremely lifelike. The figures are three to four inches in height, with cheerful expressions and dressed in bright clothing. Many of the figurines produced there reflect contemporary literary life and people's daily lives.

It is said that Huishan clay figurines have a history of over 400 years. The little clay figures are not only very cute and colorful, but also full of cultural connotations.

"Da A Fu" is probably the most famous figure, which usually appears in the form of a plump boy holding a green lion or fish, to symbolize prosperity and luck. Children are one of the main themes of the figures. Like "Da A Fu", the typical children figures have large heads and smiling faces. Another popular theme is "Lao Shou Xing" (the Old Man of Longevity).

There are mainly two types of figurines -- the molded and hand-made variety. The molded clay figures are relatively coarse and make good toys for kids. The hand-made figures are more delicate, creative and vivid, with a variety of characters largely based on traditional Chinese operas and rich Chinese culture.

Thanks to their unique style, these colored figurines have been well received by Chinese people throughout the country and have been sold to 50 countries and regions.

Masters of the art have given demonstrations in Japan, the United States, Australia and other countries. Hence, Huishan clay figurines display the best color modeling art in the East.

You can visit the Huishan Clay Sculpture Factory in Wuxi if you're in the area to learn more about this folk art and how the clay figurines are made. A visit to the Huishan Clay Sculpture Factory provides a unique artistic experience, as well as the opportunity to purchase some of these fine souvenirs.