Collecting Chinese Mud Men: A Detailed Look at the Variety, Condition, and Symbolism with Illustrations Paperback – June 22, 2023

This book is a comprehensive look at the primitive but very popular figures called "niren," the Chinese word for figures made from clay. This second edition paperback version significantly expands upon the eBook of the same name published in 2013 and provides descriptions of over 90 Chinese symbols and 400 color illustrations. Produced by local potters, mud men arose over the last 100 or more years from a cottage industry in the Shiwan/Foshan area and were designed for domestic consumption as ornaments for a home altar, shrine, or garden where they were meant to foster good luck, long life, or wealth. Over the decades, these objects were increasingly designed for and distributed to the export market. While museum quality clay sculptures created by famous artists in the early 20th century may have been the inspiration for these figures, this book focuses on representative examples of the "affordable" and more primitive mud men which have become popular among decorators, antique hunters, and collectors for their "folk art" value. This easy to read and informative guide brings together facts, insights, and detailed descriptions of the symbolism into an indepth look at the collectibles known as Chinese mud men. It is a must read for anyone interested in mud men. A handy checklist will help collectors track their acquisitions. Read more