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.

A Masterpiece of Art & Time:

This artwork is a handcrafted Beijing silk figurine named "Ming Dynasty Palace Imperial Concubine Playing Lute," which depicts a luxuriously dressed palace woman playing the pipa.

This piece is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship and meticulous detail, showcasing the unique charm of ancient Chinese culture.

The historical background of this artwork dates back to the Ming dynasty when palace women were often educated in music and skilled in playing various instruments.

The pipa, as one of China's traditional musical instruments, was beloved for its beautiful sound and distinctive playing techniques.

In this scene, we can see a woman dressed in gorgeous attire sitting at a table, focused on playing the pipa.

Her fingers gently pluck the strings, producing delightful music.

This artwork not only has artistic value but also carries rich historical significance.

It showcases the prosperity and elegance of ancient Chinese palace culture, reflecting the society's emphasis on music and art during that time.

By appreciating this artwork, we can better understand the development and evolution of ancient Chinese culture and how people expressed their pursuit of beauty.

Furthermore, this artwork can also be seen as a symbol of romance.

The female figure it portrays is beautiful and captivating, leaving a deep impression with her musical talent and graceful demeanor.

This romantic sentiment can be experienced through observing this artwork, allowing one to feel the joyous and superior atmosphere of life.

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