Imagine Bao Dai’s flowing robes and Lin Daiyu’s delicate features literally in the palm of your hand! 🖐️ Artists are reinterpreting Cao Xueqin’s 18th-century masterpiece through Beijing silk dolls – a craft recognized as Chinese intangible cultural heritage.
These 20cm-tall figures capture the novel’s iconic characters using techniques perfected over 700 years. From intricate embroidery mimicking Qing Dynasty textiles to miniature hair ornaments made with filigree gold, each doll takes 3 months to create. 🧵✨
"It’s like holding a chapter come alive," says curator Li Wei, noting how the project bridges Gen Z audiences with classical literature. The collection’s TikTok reveal last week trended with #BookTok meets #ArtisanVibes.
Why this matters: 📌
• Preserves traditional craftsmanship
• Makes literary classics accessible
• Sparks cross-generational dialogue
Psst… rumor says a collab with Shanghai Disney Resort’s ‘Storyteller’ series is brewing! 🏯 Who wouldn’t want Mulan hanging out with Jia Baoyu?
Reference(s):
Redefining 'Dream of the Red Chamber' with Chinese silk dolls
cgtn.com








