H120xL120xW30mm, China
Tin toy was introduced into China at the turn of the century and by the 20s China has started producing tin toy. As they are durable and cheap they became the toy for many generations. The name tin toy came from the fact that it is made from thin sheets of steel plated tin which are then painted over. This windup toy of a boy and a dog, this is chosen for the blog because it resemble my dog spike!
H500xW150mm, China (Chaozhou)
There are many different types of puppet in China, this is a Chaozhou wire puppet. It is called a wire puppet because it is controlled by 3 metal wire, one supports the head and the other two control the arms. Its other name “paper shadow puppet” reveals its history; at the Song dynasty the flat shadow puppet was introduced in the chaozhou region, it was later developed into 3D, as the demand from the spectators grow the paper between the puppet and the spectator is removed and the feature of the puppet refined (head, hands and feet, elaborated costumes). The head is made with clay, paper as hands, dried grass as body and wooden carved legs but the wire control remains.
H250xW150xD50mm, Indonesia
This is an Indonesian topeng mask use for traditional dance drama which is most popular in Bali and Java. These dances accompanied by gamelan music are performed during temple festivals and in ceremonies.
L150xW120mm, China
Woodblock prints are traditionally posted to celebrate Chinese New Year, both as a decoration and as a good blessing to the household. The subject matter of the prints surrounds the idea of good fortune, this projects for household to the year ahead. On this particular print, its is written ” On the night of the wedding; when one is selected as an high ranking offical.”. This would probably symbolises the best moment in a man’s life. Adapting to modern day use, this is mounted on a greeting card, perfect for giving well wishes. (US$4)
H100x W50xD20mm, China
A clay monkey toy with the figure of mother and baby monkey painted on. The figurine is made from 2 pieces of clay joined together by a piece of sheep skin. When flexing it will make a sound of a monkey. This is a traditional toy for kids. (US$4)
H250xW100xD50mm, China (Hong Kong)
This wooden figure is covered in gold leave with painted features of the face (unfortunately the costume is no longer present). This particular figure has small bounded feet in red shoes. The Sea Goddess is believed to have the power to protect those at sea. Traditionally, the figurine is paraded at festive activities such as the Sea Goddess birthday (3rd Moon, day 23) blessing the people in the area.
W100xH100xD25mm, China
This is a piece of wood carving covered with gold leaf, traditionally used in interior ornaments such as decoration for bed post or family alter table. Though it can be found throughout China, it is mainly in the Southern Region where carving are more refined. The golden wood carving makes use of the depth of the material, creating layers and a sense of perspective as a show of craftsmanship.
Mountain Folkcraft 