A few decades ago, Chinese blank was one of the most common interior souvenirs. This figure could be seen in almost every house in a prominent place, for example, on a chest of drawers, surrounded by knitted napkins, porcelain elephants and family photographs within. It is noteworthy that such a thing often decorated the homes of those who had never been to China.
Chinoiserie
An elderly Chinese figurine made of porcelain, ceramics, clay or even papier-mâché has the ability to drive away evil spirits. At least, owners of unusual figurines are convinced of this. The chinoiserie style, to which the Chinese blank belongs, is an independent branch of the rococo. This style is characterized by elaborate decorativeness and even a certain amount of excess, which makes the figures look very attractive.
The word "chinoiserie" has French roots and literally translates as "Chinese style." It is noteworthy that this phenomenon did not arise at all in the Middle Kingdom, but in Europe, at the end of the 17th century. The craze for Chinese porcelain generated an increasing interest in the culture and fine art of this country. Features chinoiserie can be found in architecture, painting, arts and crafts of those times.
First of all, such figures are liked by those who are fond of the ancient culture of the Middle Kingdom. It is believed that the history of the doodle has more than one hundred years.
Fighter with evil spirits
From time immemorial, the Chinese believed that we were surrounded by invisible entities coming from other worlds. Spirits can be good or vice versa - to be hostile. In Chinese culture, there has always been a huge number of amulets and amulets that help to cope with the attacks of evil spirits.
Chinese blank is not just a spectacular souvenir. His smooth wiggles act soothingly. A man sitting in a relaxed position nods his head, as if he agrees with everything that is happening around him. The evil spirits that surround us everywhere are scared of a fat kind man and immediately set off. If you want to protect your home from otherworldly spirits, set a spectacular oriental figure in a prominent place. He will surely cope with the task and not only drive away bad creatures, but also help to find peace, mutual understanding between family members.
Variety of Doodles
Souvenirs from China are very diverse. In ancient times, blanks were made from a wide variety of materials. Richer people could afford ivory and porcelain, and in houses of the poor settled bollards from pressed paper, clay, wood.
Traditionally, blankets were covered with decorative painting. The figurine, as a rule, depicts an old man of large physique, dressed up in a rich bathrobe. He has large ears, which in China are considered a sign of good fortune and a light character. A broad, good-natured smile illuminates the face of the idol - the main weapon of a fighter with unkind forces.
How to care for such a souvenir? It depends on its shape, size, material. Remember that not every figure can be wet. Better just brush off the dust from time to time.
The lesson of an angry god
How did the Chinese blank come about? There are many legends and fairy tales associated with its origin. According to one of the most common versions, the evil emperor once lived in the world. The proud man did not like everything, everything annoyed him. The citizens did not hear praise and encouragement from him, but there was no shortage of reproaches and censures.
One day, Fu Shen himself, the Chinese god of happiness, decided to intervene. Seeing that no lesson would benefit the evil emperor, he turned him into a blockhead — smiling and nodding in agreement.
Since then, no matter what happens, the emperor has been pleased and pleased. His wide smile has become a real calling card. A nodding head symbolizes a cordial attitude towards the world. Porcelain figurine figures remind us of this old legend today.
Emperor's clerk
But there are other versions. The following is considered official. She is also associated with the ancient emperor, or rather, with his clerk. Like many souvenirs from China, the doodle has a real prototype.
Orientalists believe that the blank symbolizes the clerk, recording the sayings of the ruler. Whatever the emperor dictated, the clerk could only nod in accordance. His task was to preserve wise sayings for future generations. Dummy, of course, does not record anything, but recalls who many centuries ago simply humbly performed his work, without complaining about anything and not complaining.
Fashion revival
Today, Chinese doodles, netsuke figurines and similar souvenirs from the East are again popular. Traveling in China, you will often come across these cute figures on sale. Dummy can be a wonderful gift for anyone who is passionate about the ancient culture of China. Brought from a historic homeland, it will easily fit into the interior of any modern apartment and will remind you of your journey.
When choosing porcelain figurines, pay attention to workmanship. A particularly important point is the fastening of the head - everything must be reliable and durable.
The price of such a figure primarily depends on the material from which it is made. Of course, the most expensive are porcelain and bone discs.
To get such a cute little thing, it is not necessary to go to China. Dummies are sold in souvenir shops around the world.