Festive demand fuels boom for Weifang's traditional clay sculptures

As Chinese New Year approaches, the workshops of Niejiazhuang village in Jiangzhuang town, Weifang, are buzzing with activity. Local artisans are working around the clock to produce their iconic clay sculptures, meeting a surge in demand from both online and offline markets across the country.

The tiger-shaped clay sculpture is a signature piece of Niejiazhuang's traditional craftsmanship. [Photo/VCG]

Niejiazhuang is renowned as a historic hub for traditional clay craftsmanship. The village's sculptures boast a heritage spanning over 400 years and were recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage item in 2008. These vibrant, handcrafted figures — often depicting traditional motifs and zodiac animals — are highly sought after as festive decorations and symbols of good fortune.

A local artisan shares the art of clay sculpture with young learners. [Photo/VCG]

In recent years, Jiangzhuang town has been leveraging this cultural legacy to drive local economic growth. By transforming a traditional craft into a thriving industry, the town has established dedicated workshops that provide stable employment and boost incomes for hundreds of residents.

A local artisan showcases traditional clay sculptures during a live-stream. [Photo/Dazhong News]