Clay Sculptures of Children

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This group of Clay Sculptures of Children is unearthed in Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, which can date back to the Southern Song Dynasty. They prove the super talent of folk artists, which are one of the excellent representative artworks among small appreciative sculptures of the Song Dynasty. Clay sculptures of five children not only take independent form, but also jointly an interesting wrestling scene. Five children are all naive and lovely, and their features are conveyed vividly.

Clay sculpture of child cupping his hands

This child listens to others’ comment with keen pleasure. Cupping his hands, he is concentrated by turning head to one side. He looks experienced and prudent. He hangs down eyelids and quirks up the mouth, who looks naughty. This artwork seizes the subtle moment, which is authentic and realistic.

This clay sculpture of child takes upturned face and looks at the opposite, who is obviously wrestled down. He is not angry but unwilling to submit. With unlimited power, he seems to stand up for continuous challenge. This is certainly a naughty and naive boy.

Sculptures with theme of children of the Song Dynasty

Small appreciative sculptures bloomed in the Song Dynasty, and most of them followed the theme of children. At that time, the folk customs prevailed, i.e., presenting clay children on Double Seventh Festival. Suzhou and Hangzhou were important production areas for such artworks. Porcelain kilns across the country also produced porcelain children.

Presenting “Qiao Er”

The folk customs of presenting clay children prevailed in the Song Dynasty. On Double Seventh Festival, all family bought clay sculptures of children to present each other. In the north, such sculptures were called as “Ni Hai Er”. And in the south, such sculptures were called as “Qiao Er”. They imply auspice and many children and grandchildren. Most of them are images of boys with clothes or bare body. They all take playing posture.