Figures from the past have modern appeal

Traditional craft makes a comeback as new technology helps cut costs, Yang Feiyue reports.

Upon entering the Tangrenfang Art of Dolls Museum in the capital city's eastern Tongzhou district, the eye of the visitor is immediately drawn to the more than 100 figurines clad in distinctive and elaborate folk costumes. They range from women in traditional dress to legendary figures from classic novels.

Seen at close quarters, their smooth skin, vivid facial expressions and highly detailed accessories are quite breathtaking.

"They are all traditional juanren, which is, in fact, a type of soft artistic puppet," says Tang Yan, who runs the museum.

Beijing juanren, or Beijing silk figurines, first appeared during the Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 220) and were popular for centuries. However, after the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), their production gradually declined and the craft was on the verge of extinction.

In 1954, when China was invited to join an international doll and figurine competition hosted by India, a few artists drew extensively from ethnic groups, classical literature, historical stories, and characters from traditional operas and dances, managing to revive the art of juanren.

The traditional puppets range in height from 16 to 50 centimeters, depicting characters of all ages and genders. However, juanren particularly excels in portraying graceful and charming women.