Raystown Lake Campgrounds
By Morgan Lee | July 4, 2009
Camping is a refreshing outdoor activity- and is liked or admired by people of all age groups. Generally people opt for camping vacations, so that they can take a break form their hectic lives and spend a day or two with Mother Nature. Let me tell you about one of the best campgrounds that you may ever visit- the Raystown Lake campground! The Raystown Lake is located in the Allegheny Mountains of south Central Pennsylvania, owned and operated by the Army Corps of Engineers. It is the largest man-made reservoir in Huntington and offers fabulous and well-equipped campsites to all the camping enthusiasts.
There are numerous campgrounds situated near Raystown Lake- all of which provide fabulous facilities for the camping enthusiasts. Below is a description of some of the campsites located in Raystown.
1. Four Seasons at Raystown Lake camping Resort The Four Seasons Lake Camping Resort is one of the most fabulous campsites located near Raystown Lake. It provides various camping facilities like satellite, shower facility, cabins, RV sewer hook-ups, TV connection, game room, electric hook-ups and wheelchair access. There are loads of outdoor games which may enjoy in the campgrounds like boating, swimming picnicking and hiking. The Four Seasons Lake Camping Resort also provides boat launch area, picnic site, restaurants water parks and beaches.
2. Hemlock Hideaway Campground This wonderful campsite is covered with flourishing green fields and attractive wooded trees- covering an area of 83 hectares. The campsites are situated in shady or secluded areas- so that you can have a peaceful camping vacation with your family. It is located only 1 mile from Raystown Lake, just at the side of Bunn Mountain and provides various amenities like children’s playground, heated pool game room, fishing pond and modern bathrooms.
3. Lake Raystown Resort Let me tell you that this camping resort is very cool- and offers something to every visitor! Some of the outdoor activities that you may enjoy in the crystal clear waters of the Lake are swimming, boating and fishing. The campground is very near to the Lake Raytown’s boating rental and you can pick up a boat of your choice and enjoy boating!
4. Lake Raystown Family Camping Resort The Lake Raystown Family Camping Resort is spread over an area of 100 acres - and presents cabins, large and clean campsites and a bunkhouse that may fit into your RV. Thos campsite provides fun filled adventure for you and your family and you may enjoy camping in the seasonal or permanent campsites, wooded forests and shady areas.
5. Pioneer Family Campground The Pioneer Family Campground is owned and operated privately and is opened all year round. Some of the facilities provided at the campsite include electricity, cable connection, water and pump connection, a small golf area and picnic pavilion, heated swimming pool and wooded trekking trails. I am sure that you will enjoy here!
These are some of the best campgrounds situated near Lake Raystown. I am sure that you will love all of the campsites! So, just pack your bags and head-off for a camping trip.
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Queensland Honeymoon Spots
By Patrick Daniels | July 3, 2009
You can find some of the most beautiful honeymoon destinations in Queensland, Australia. Out of all the great locations to choose from, here are the top five honeymoon destinations that you should consider.
Noosa: Noosa has relaxed glamour and laid back luxury and is the superstar of the Sunshine Coast. Here you can find five star accommodation.gorgeous beaches, world class dining and exclusive shopping. There are plenty of spa resorts to pamper yourselves and the cool lifestyle and scenic surrounds will bring out the romance in anyone.
Fraser Island: This is a place that is not just known for it’s beauty. Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world with sand dunes 700,000 years old with rainbow colours. The island can be explored on foot or with a 4WD. You can also enjoy the many freshwater lakes and towering rainforest’s while visiting Fraser Island. Then there is Hervey Bay, the whale capital of Australia and popular gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Fraser Island is also a great place for any size honeymoon budget as accommodation include everything from a luxurious resort to basic and remote style stays.
The Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast Hinterlands: This is the absolute perfect honeymoon destination if you are looking to relax, and remove yourself from the world to focus on each others company. You can sip wine by a log fire in a boutique accommodation, take day trips to the local wine country and much more. There are also many resort spas. Honeymooners love this destinations because of its peaceful seclusion and lush scenery.
The Gold Coast: If you are a couple that enjoys beaches and fun then the Gold Coast is the honeymoon destination spot for you! At the Gold Coast you will find luxurious accommodation, fine dining, exciting bars and nightlife, and breath taking beaches. There are also nearby theme parks and other activities that can keep you entertained for weeks.
Stradbroke Island: Straddie is a honeymoon haven slowly being discovered by more and more couples. Accessible is less that an hour by ferry from Cleveland, this natural wonderland of sweeping beaches and dense natural forest has a laid back feel that makes it ideal for romance and relaxation. Point Lookout has amazing houses to let out with amazing views. From June to November you should be able to see humpback whales and at any time of the year dolphins are common and the sea is home to turtles and dugongs. There are two stunning lakes ,Brown lake is perfect for swimming and the water is colored by the lakes peaty bottom , Blue Lake is great to walk around as it is home to native animals .Honeymooners will love the natural beauty and low key locals.
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Brisbane’s Fun and Exciting Activities
By Patrick Daniels | July 3, 2009
With a perfect climate, Brisbane is a perfect destination for outdoor activities. The city is relatively flat and has numerous parks to enable you to walk, cycle, and skate to your hearts content!
Cycling: There are over 5,000 kms of cycle ways across the Brisbane city. You can take a ride around the river, explore the suburbs or cycle around Moreton Bay. You can pick up a booklet at the tourist information centres, Brisbane Bicycle Experience Guide, to find details on cycle paths if you choose. For an easy start you can go from the City Botanic Gardens, cross the Goodwill Bridge to the University of Queensland. Bikes are allowed on city trains, at all times except peak hours, and they are also allowed on the CityCat and Ferries for free.
In-Line Skating: Many of the cycle tracks are also great for eating. Places like Skatebiz, on Albert Street, offer skate rental and safety equipment rentals to anyone who needs. Some other places that are great for skating include Southbank Parklands, City Botanic Gardens and Brisbane River paths.
Rock Climbing: This is one of the most popular past times in Brisbane, with many wonderful places to explore. You can start at the Cliffs Rock Climbing area at Kangaroo Point, these pink volcanic cliffs are now home to a rock climbing wall. This wall is suitable for all climbing expertise levels and are lit until midnight. Indoor climbing is also available at Urban Climb, in West End or Rock Sports, in Fortitude Valley. Clubs such as K2 Extreme and Torre Mountain Craft also offer mountain climbing and abseiling classes.
Swimming: Of course, the favourite place to swim has got to be the out door artificial lagoon at Southbank Parklands. Aside from this there are many other pools on offer: Centenary Pool has an attached fitness center and is a 50 meter pool and high diving .There is also a toddlers wading pool; Spring Hill Baths is heated and open all year round offering lessons, aqua aerobics and a dip into history; It is Brisbane’s first in ground public baths built in 1886. Try out the quirky historic changing cubicles.
Skydiving and Ballooning: The Brisbane Skydiving Centre picks up from the CBD and offers tandem skydives over Brisbane including a 30 minute scenic flight .Balloon flights over Brisbane CBD are spectacular and can be organized by Fly Me to the Moon. They take off just after daybreak and travel about 10 to 15 kms and are about the hour. A 4WD follows you to the landing site. The flight normally takes you over the river and views extend north beyond the Glass House Mountains and south to the Border Ranges.
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Chinese Paper Cutouts For Shoppers In Beijing
By Philippe Chavanne | July 3, 2009
Paper cutting is an ancient Chinese art that was developed about 2,000 years ago in the Han dynasty, right after paper was invented. Artists in different regions of China have invented many local styles of paper cutouts over the years. In the local shops of Beijing, you can buy exquisite paper cutouts done in different styles.
In China, paper cutouts are sometimes referred to as “chuang hua,” or “window flowers,” because people in the countryside like to use them to decorate their windows, doors, and walls. These works often have a double-sided design with images of landscapes, houses, people, animals, or flowers. During festivals, people like to design cutouts with auspicious Chinese characters, like “Fu,” “Shou,” or “Xi,” which mean Fortune, Longevity, and Happiness. In a traditional household, women are responsible for making such items.
Evidence shows that paper art started to gain momentum during the Tang dynasty. Paper cutouts created in this period demonstrate a high level of workmanship. The Chinese paper industry began to thrive in the Song dynasty, and it was during this time that paper cutting became a popular leisure activity for many Chinese, as more varieties of paper products were made available. The popularity was not limited to the household: even porcelain masters adopted many patterns from paper cutouts for use on their work. In the Ming and Qing dynasties, this art reached another level.
Across China, there are three major styles of paper cutting: the southern style, the Jiangzhe style, and the northern style. All three of these styles include many local sub-styles that are famous for their unique designs.
The Southern Style: This style includes work produced in Foshan, Wuhan, and Fujian.
Foshan - Foshan artisans like to produce paper cutouts with bright colors and extravagant designs. Even though their theme is “loud,” they are liked by a lot of people, including both Chinese and overseas customers.
Wuhan - Wuhan’s paper cutting incorporates elements of the local “Chu” culture. Many famous paper cutout artists in China are from this area. They have created items that have vivid pictures and demonstrate a deep cultural understanding.
Fujian - Animals are the main themes of the paper cutouts made in Fujian. A famous work called “Chicken-Feet Flower” shows a very interesting animal picture.
The Jiangzhe Style: Jiangzhe is the region in China that includes Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces. Paper cutouts made in these two provinces have their own regional characteristics.
Jiangsu - Jiangsu artists make paper cutouts with beautiful flower designs. The flowers depicted are delicate, lifelike, and give a sense of romance.
Zhejiang - Zhejiang paper cutouts have elegant designs and exquisite craftsmanship. The designs usually show things in nature and “Yue” play characters. Some of the cutouts are used to decorate lanterns.
The Northern Style: Of all the northern styles, the Shanxi style, Shaanxi style, and Shandong styles are the most well known.
Shanxi - Village people in Shanxi province live in traditional cave-houses with minimal decorations. The paper cutouts they make generally reflect this reality - most of them have a very simple design. They also have a rough feel, similar to the character of the local people.
Shaanxi - The geographical location of Shaanxi province is isolated from the rest of China. For this reason, the paper cutouts produced here have preserved many of the oldest patterns from ancient Chinese culture. They are nicknamed “living fossils.”
Shangdong - Shangdong paper cutouts are known for their exquisite craftsmanship and unique local characteristics. Village women in the province like to put small pieces of paper on windows that eventually create a large, complete work. Paper cutouts made in this way have a unique look.
The high-quality, unique paper cutouts in some of Beijing’s local shops are not something you want to miss. Find a personal shopper to help you find the shops and buy some exquisite products.
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A Career as a Travel Nurse
By Amy Nutt | July 3, 2009
Travel nurses are healthcare professionals such as registered nurses or therapists who travel to various locations to work for certain portions of the year. They usually work up to four travel jobs per year. A travel nurse can work in any region in the United States and many International regions. Most nurses secure travel nursing jobs through a reputable travel staffing agency.
A career as a travel nurse can be personally and financially rewarding. Most people who have experienced life as a travel nurse say it is an exciting profession and a great way to earn a living. A travel nurse will enjoy living in new and exciting locations, reside in wonderful accommodations, and work in excellent hospitals. Other benefits include:
Travel Assistance: Most reputable travel nurse agencies will arrange such travel details as directions and maps. They should also have a 24-hour emergency hotline.
Great Pay: While on assignment, travel nurses are offered comprehensive packages consisting of excellent pay with many benefits and bonuses. Annual earnings for an RN travel nursing jobs can be as high as $110,000.
Your Facility Choice: Most travel nurse agencies have available jobs in all 50 states and at the highest ranking hospitals.
Free Private Housing: Housing accommodations are selected by travel nurse agencies for their excellent services and amenities that may include spas, swimming pools, and fitness centers.
Flexible Work Schedule: Many nurses choose a career as a travel nurse because the stress of a traditional hospital and medical jobs can be the result of long hours and increased physical demands. Travel nurses have more flexible work schedules. It is often much easier for a travel nurse to plan for special engagements and vacations
Free Health and Dental Insurance: Travel nursing agencies offer many free comprehensive health plans to meet all their clients needs. Dependents can also be covered at a nominal cost. Travel nurses can also receive supplemental insurance that provides income if they are unable to work as a result of a non-work-related illness. As well, professional liability insurance should be offered at no extra cost.
Work Protection Plan: A work protection program should be offered by a reputable travel nursing agency because it ensures that if a shift is cancelled, you will still be paid.
Travel Expenses Reimbursement: Most travel nursing agencies will provide travel allowance to nurses. Travel allowance may be given before you depart or as a reimbursement after you arrive.
Tax Advantage Plans: Tax laws allow full-time travel nurses to receive non-taxable credit for meals.
Licensure Reimbursement: Travel nurse agencies will reimburse nurses for their State Nursing Licensure fees for every travel assignment. They will also help travel nurses acquire a State Nursing License.
Auto Club Membership: Many travel nurse agencies offer a discount or free membership to the an auto club. Travel nurses will have access to roadside assistance, hotel discounts, rental cars, free trip routing with detailed directions and maps, emergency check cashing, and no fee travelers checks.
401(k) Plan: Travel nurses can enroll in a retirement 401(k) plan where a portion of their earnings will go into a retirement savings plan.
Free Course Upgrades: Many travel nursing agencies will provide free education courses so nurses can keep up with new technology and education.
Referral Bonuses: Travel nursing agencies will give bonuses to travel nurses who recruit other health professionals into their travel nurse program.
While the pay and bonuses of a career in travel nursing are very rewarding, travel nursing positions are highly sought after. It is important that you keep up with modern education and experience. There are hundreds of agencies that specialize in placing travel nurses. Registering with several agencies will increase your assignment choices. With the right planning and knowledge, you will discover great joy with a career as a travel nurse.
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Hotel Accommodations In Geneva, New York
By Angelina Edwards | July 3, 2009
The city of Geneva is an enthralling place located in Ontario and Seneca counties in New York State, United States of America. The city is also called the “Lake Trout Capital of the World.” Geneva is a striking city which offers the visitors several wonderful views, spectacular sceneries, Belhurst Castle and the beautiful Seneca Lake. The city is just perfect for serene vacations and also for many leisure activities.
Many visitors come to this attractive city all around the year. So, now let me tell you about some of the good hotel lodgings located in Geneva.
1. Geneva On The Lake Geneva on the Lake is a wonderful resort of Geneva which is situated on the Seneca Lake in the middle of the charming Finger Lakes Wine Country. This resort is opened all the year around and covers an area of 10 lush green acres which can be explored during your leisure time. The staff members are amiable and hospitable and offer the best services to all the guests coming to this place. All the guest suites are extremely well decorated and fully furnished with all the essential things.
2. The Belhurst Belhurst Hotel is suitably positioned in the city of Geneva and is very near from Rochester, Syracuse, Ithaca, Corning and Elmira. The history, natural beauty and the elegance of this place truly makes it world class. Here you can easily get rooms in the White Springs Manor and the Vinifera Inn. All the rooms give you a romantic atmosphere with cathedral ceilings, fine woodwork and mosaic-tiled fireplaces. Nearby to this place you can indulge in winery tours, shopping, golfing, skiing, historic attractions, water sports and theaters.
3. Hampton Inn, Geneva This Inn is situated on the 43 Lake Street in Geneva. The hotel has a tranquil background with gracious neighborhood surrounding. Some of the activities that can be enjoyed in the nearby areas include biking around the town, fishing and swimming in the Seneca Lake, shopping in different malls and visiting historical sites like the Rose Hill Mansion and the Belhurst Castle. The hotel has 55 large, well maintained rooms with king-sized beds and modern furnisher.
4. Ramada Geneva Lakefront Ramada Geneva Lakefront is located on the North Shore of Seneca Lake in the center of the Finger Lakes Area. Some of the amenities offered here are an indoor swimming pool, a business center and free high speed internet through out the hotel. Some of the places that you can visit from here are Watkins Glen, various wineries, Finger Lakes Race Track, Syracuse, NYS Wine and Culinary Center and Rochester.
So, come to this attractive city in order to enjoy thrilling and memorable vacations with near and dear ones.
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Geneva - New York Hotels
By Angelina Edwards | July 3, 2009
Geneva is an amazingly beautiful city located in Ontario and Seneca counties which are in the New York state, United States of America. Geneva is also known as the “Lake Trout Capital of the World” and is a gorgeous city which has amazing landscapes, spectacular sceneries, The Belhurst Castle and the picturesque Seneca Lake.
Many visitors come to this attractive city all around the year. So, now let me tell you about some of the good hotel lodgings located in Geneva.
1. Geneva On The Lake Geneva on the Lake is a wonderful resort of Geneva which is situated on the Seneca Lake in the middle of the charming Finger Lakes Wine Country. This resort is opened all the year around and covers an area of 10 lush green acres which can be explored during your leisure time. The staff members are amiable and hospitable and offer the best services to all the guests coming to this place. All the guest suites are extremely well decorated and fully furnished with all the essential things.
2. The Belhurst Belhurst Hotel is conveniently located in the city of Geneva and is very near from Rochester, Syracuse and Elmira. The history, natural beauty and the grace of this place truly makes it a popular tourist destination. The Belhurst is an enchanting castle that provides the best accommodation facilities to all the guests. All the rooms are romantically decorated with cathedral ceilings, fine woodwork and mosaic-tiled fireplaces. Nearby to this place you can indulge in winery tours, shopping, golfing, water sports and theaters.
3. Hampton Inn, Geneva This hotel is situated on the 43 Lake Street in Geneva, New York. It has a peaceful atmosphere with pleasant neighborhood surrounding. Some of the recreational activities that you can enjoy nearby include wine tours and wine tasting, biking around the town, fishing and swimming in the Seneca Lake and visiting historical sites like the Rose Hill Mansion and the Belhurst Castle. The hotel has 55 spacious well cleaned rooms with king-sized beds and contemporary furnisher.
4. Ramada Geneva Lakefront Ramada Geneva Lakefront is located on the North Shore of Seneca Lake in the middle of the Finger Lakes area. The hotel is very appropriate for business as well as holiday travelers. Some of the amenities that you cab get here are an indoor swimming pool, a business center and free high speed internet through out the hotel. Places of interest located nearby include Watkins Glen, various wineries, Syracuse, NYS Wine and Culinary Center, Rochester and Finger Lakes Race Track.
So, here are some lavish and comfortable resorts and hotels which you can easily locate in Geneva, New York.
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Explore Beijing’s Local Shops To Find Exquisite Chinese Lacquer Ware
By Andy Lao | July 3, 2009
In China, lacquer is considered one of the best materials for decorating household items. As early as 7,000 years ago, Chinese people began producing lacquer ware. Throughout China’s history, lacquer ware was used to decorate homes and symbolize status. When shopping in Beijing, don’t forget to find some exquisite Chinese lacquer ware in the amazing local shops of the city.
Starting in the Warring States Period, the use of lacquer ware gradually replaced the use of bronze vessels in many areas of China. In the 6th century, Chinese lacquer-making techniques were introduced to Japan. The lacquer ware industry started to flourish. In the Qing dynasty, Chinese lacquer items were exported to Europe in large numbers.
Visitors in Beijing are often surprised to see the like-new lacquer works they find in many of the city’s museums. Even though these items have been stored for hundreds of years, they are still smooth and bright. This is one of lacquer ware’s excellent qualities: it can be preserved for what seems like an eternity.
The most well-known qualities of lacquer ware are its “four resists.” It can resist moisture, heat, acid, and corrosion. What make it so durable are the unique materials used to make it and the traditional techniques applied.
For as substantial and hard as a lacquer ware is, it is incredibly light. Its enduring strength comes not from its density or size, but from the numerous layers of lacquer that are painted on the body. It is also very easy to clean and wash, and its appealing, delicate-looking surface is not easily damaged.
Now the lacquer ware industry of China is flourishing. Factories and workshops in cities across the country are producing lacquer ware in different local styles. As a main cultural center, Beijing is producing work that is famous for its multi-layer design and majestic red color.
A number of styles of lacquer ware are famous for their unique characteristics, they include: the elegant mother-of-pearl lacquer ware produced in Yangzhou, Jiangsu province, the especially durable lacquer ware from Fujian province, and the lacquer ware produced in Sichuan, Shanxi, Guizhou, Gansu, Jiangxi, and Shaanxi province.
There are about 14 major styles of lacquer ware produced in China, they are:
1. Single-color
2. Clear-top-coat ware
3. Lacquer-painted ware
4. Gilt ware
5. Lacquer-embossed
6. Lacquer-filled ware
7. Gold-filled ware
8. Lacquer-gold-filled ware
9. Mother-of-pearl ware
10. Carved
11. Rhinoceros-leather ware
12. Carved Multi-color ware
13. Multi-jewel ware
14. Bodiless ware
When it comes to decorating house, few other art forms can compare to lacquer ware for its mixed sense of beauty, style, and mystery. Put one or two lacquer works in a corner of your room, and you have a special space that shows taste, wisdom, and culture.
Shop for authentic lacquer ware only in shops with well-established reputations. Beware, because there are many fake items and bad imitations in the market nowadays. First-time visitors in Beijing are especially vulnerable to being ripped-off by street vendors and dishonest gift shops. You can find a personal shopper to help you get to the best shops with true lacquer ware items.
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What Can You Expect From Diplomatic Passport Services?
By Hloe Dittman | July 3, 2009
Diplomatic passport services are now found in plenty as many more individuals wish to have a second passport for various reasons. No company can sell diplomatic passport. It is the national governments that can issue diplomatic passport for those in diplomatic position who will visit other countries representing the host country.
About 190 countries in the UN council accept diplomatic passport and you can use it instead of your normal passport. Just because traveling using a second passport is allowed, it is not that all the countries readily issue diplomatic passport. Only a few small countries and islands offer diplomatic passport and you can find the list at right-way.net.
To get the second passport, you have to be identified as a diplomat with the government of the host country. Honorary consul is not a responsible position, but you can diplomatic passport by becoming an honorary member. right-way.net can also help you get diplomatic immunity using other positions.
From the list of available countries, you can choose a host country with whom you wish to work with. Then www.right-way.net assists you in completing all the necessary legal forms. This is a crucial step that has to be carried out with more care. After completing necessary forms of diplomatic immunity for the position like ambassador, the company will send the form to the concerned authorities.
When you are qualified as a diplomat, your immediate family also attains diplomatic position. However, you have to apply for diplomatic passport with right-way.net for your family members if you need second passport for them also. You can become an ambassador of one of the small countries or enjoy diplomatic benefits as an honorary consul.
Diplomatic passport issued by certain host countries allow you to travel without visa to other countries. However, the actual list of countries to which you can travel without visa is limited by the host country. You can travel to other countries as a diplomat and with diplomatic immunity, the local laws will not affect you.
You have to wait for a few days after submitting your application as www.right-way.net will take time to check the documents. All necessary legal assistance for filling documents will be given by the company.
To get diplomatic position, you have to visit the host country a couple of times and meet the government officials for interviews. The diplomatic passport service will fix appointments and arrange for all the meetings.
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Exquisite Chinese Clay Figurines For Beijing’s Shoppers
By Andy Lao | July 3, 2009
China is one of the first countries in the world where clay was used to create figurines. Archaeological evidence suggests this art started over 10,000 years ago, during the Neolithic period. Though originally a primitive art form, it developed to a very high level in the Tang dynasty, driven in part by people’s need to build figures for Buddhist temples. When in Beijing, don’t forget to go shopping for some exquisite, cute figurines in the amazing local shops.
Clay figurines were used for different purposes by ancient people. It is generally believed the figurines made in prehistoric times were mainly used for ceremonies. Later in the Han dynasty, clay figurines were used as burial gifts. Nowadays clay figurines are usually used as toys or decorations by people who are attracted by their exquisite designs and vivid expressions.
China has many styles of clay figurines that are famous for their charming characteristics. Among them, “Clay Figurine Zhang” from Tianjin and Huishan figurines from Wuxi are the most famous.
“Clay Figruine Zhang”is a famous, time-honored brand of clay figurines. It was started 180 years ago by a master clay artist Zhang Mingshan. He created a number of famous figurines based on characters from classic novels and popular plays.
It is said that his skill was so great, he could create a beautiful, lifelike clay figurine during a conversation based on the person he was talking to. The figurines he made were extraordinary works of art with postures so beautiful, and expressions so vivid, some said they could feel the presence of life when they admire them.
Zhang’s success came from his astute observation of people. His apprentices were also taught to carefully observe people in order to create great work. Now there are a number of artisans who still use his skills to make gorgeous Zhang-style clay figurines for art fans around the world.
Huishan figurines come from Wuxi, Jiangsu province. Huishan is the name of a mountain in Wuxi. For 400 years, people living around this mountain have been making spectacular clay figurines. In its peak period, there were over 200 workshops in this area that produced figurines not only for ordinary people, but also for powerful governments officials and even royal family members.
Emperor Qianlong and Empress Dowager Cixi, two of the most powerful figures of the Qing dynasty, liked Huishan figurines very much. Such figurines are so popular because they have beautiful designs and cute expressions. “Da A Fu” is a classic example of such figurines, which features two cute, plump children holding two tiny lions. It was used by the government as the official mascot of China International Tourism Year in 1992.
Fengxiang figurines from Shaanxi province, Baigou figurines from Hebei province, Gaomi figurines from Shandong provinces, Junxian figurines and Huaiyang figurines from Henan province, and Beijing figurines are also sought by many.
The process of making clay figurines can be long or short, depending on the different styles. But generally there are these steps: body-making, molding, firing, drying, and polishing. The material used to make most Chinese clay figurines is a clay that has a viscous and delicate quality. In recent years some people started to use machines to produce figurines, but the best ones with the most beautiful details are still created by hand.
When shopping in Beijing, you can find exquisite clay figurines made in every local style. But the authentic ones are usually only offered in specialized shops that are not easy to find. To make sure you can find them, it’s best to find a personal shopper.
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