National ICH: Pucheng paper-cutting

Pucheng paper-cutting, commonly known as Huayang, is distributed in Pucheng county, Nanping city, Fujian province. It has been recognized as a representative project in the traditional fine arts category in the fourth national-level intangible cultural heritage batch.

During the Western Jin Dynasty (265-316), instability in the Central Plains prompted a significant migration of aristocrats to Pucheng, where they introduced and preserved the art of paper-cutting. This cultural exchange resulted in the fusion of this art form with the Central Plains' cultural heritage and the local civilization's imprint, giving birth to the unique style of Pucheng paper-cutting.

Pucheng paper-cutting is entirely hand-cut, employing traditional techniques such as ink wax imprinting for patterns and paper twisting for fixation. The art design themes encompass a variety of motifs, including fish and lotus patterns, bird designs, pomegranate and peony decorations, rat and melon motifs, as well as gourd embellishments.

These works are typically used as decorative gifts, window decorations, or colorful lanterns to convey people's good wishes, enhancing the festive atmosphere as they become a custom. This ancient paper cutting technique is usually passed down from generation to generation, ensuring its preservation and continuation.

The local governments are making concerted efforts to promote this art form, involving the cultural sector to provide robust support for the preservation and development.