Appreciation of Chinese Folk Art · Paper Cutting · Twelve Zodiac Animals (Tiger in the Year of the Tiger)

Author: Lu Zhongmin
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-05-01
Features: Monkey Year, folk paper-cut with rustic charm, can be combined into a book or separated into individual pages, European-style production, allows tearing off any page without damaging the booklet, a perfect gift for collection. Among the numerous folk paper-cuts across the country, the twelve zodiac signs are one of the most common themes. The zodiac, also known as the Shengxiao, refers to the year of birth (Sheng) and resemblance (Xiao). The twelve zodiac signs originate from ancient China's Gan-Zhi calendar system. The twelve animals are paired with the twelve Earthly Branches, resulting in Zi Rat, Chou Ox, Yin Tiger, Mao Rabbit, Chen Dragon, Si Snake, Wu Horse, Wei Goat, Shen Monkey, You Rooster, Xu Dog, and Hai Pig. By linking the twelve Earthly Branches with a person's birth year, the twelve zodiac signs were formed, becoming popular as early as the Northern and Southern Dynasties period and even more so during the Tang Dynasty. People associate the characteristics of animals with the personalities of their zodiac signs, and even their entire lives, creating a unique Chinese zodiac culture. Folk paper-cuts depicting the twelve zodiac signs reflect the direct understanding of zodiac culture in agricultural times. They served not only as decoration but also as a of people's ideals for life. Shen time, from 3 to 5 PM, is said to be when monkeys are most likely to call out, with their voices long and loud, hence the association with the zodiac sign Shen Monkey. Because Sun Wukong, the Monkey King, held the position of "Bima Wen" (Minister of Horses) under the Jade Emperor in the classical Chinese mythological novel Journey to the West, folk art depicts monkeys as guardian deities for stables and pastures, using the homophone "Bima Wen" () to wish for the safety and health of livestock. Thus, due to Sun Wukong's role as "Bima Wen," monkeys became protectors and auspicious symbols for livestock. Monkeys have a close relationship with humans, and people perceive them as: agile, intelligent, and playful.