Spring's embrace: A Qing Dynasty New Year illustration

Nestled in the tranquil landscapes of Sichuan Province, just outside the modern metropolis of Chengdu, the unassuming city of Mianzhu is little known outside the province but for one cultural legacy. Mianzhu's New Year paintings hold profound significance in China's artistic heritage, renowned for their distinctive woodblock watercolor prints.

Originating from ancient traditions, New Year paintings, or Nianhua in Chinese, are steeped in symbolism and often portray auspicious themes and elements from folklore. Mianzhu Nianhua, specifically crafted in Sichuan's Mianzhu City, has achieved the distinction of being one of China's Four Great New Year Painting styles. The prints not only showcase the artistry of local artisans, but also serve as visual narratives, capturing the festive spirit as well as rich folk customs and the wish for prosperity.

At the heart of Mianzhu's Nianhua tradition is the masterpiece "Celebrating the Coming of Spring," which is classified as a first-class national cultural relic due to its historical and artistic value, as well as its depiction of complex folk customs.

Comprising four horizontal scrolls, each measuring 48 centimeters in height and 150 centimeters in width, "Celebrating the Coming of Spring" unfolds to a remarkable 6 meters in length. It offers a visual journey through the bustling parades of Mianzhu on the day of Lichun, the first of the 24 solar terms, signifying the beginning of spring and a new year for farmers.

The painting authentically brings to life over 460 characters of varying ages, genders and social status. It beautifully captures the vibrant folk music, dance, and traditional festivities that characterize the local culture.

Whipping the spring ox

Amid this symphony of folk art, a crescendo awaits in section four of the painting – the culminating act known as "whipping the spring ox," a traditional Chinese folk activity with deep symbolic significance. In preparation for the arrival of spring, people make a "spring ox" using soil or paper-mache, and adorn it in ceremonial attire. At the center of an open square, they use colorful whips to strike the spring ox until it shatters into pieces. As the ox breaks open, a cascade of five grains, dried fruits, red dates, walnuts and more, spills onto the ground. The crowd erupts into cheers as people eagerly grab the scattered offerings, symbolizing a bountiful harvest and prosperity in the coming year.

The primary purpose of "whipping the spring ox" is to symbolically remind people to prepare for spring plowing and encourage hard work on the land. "Lichun" marks the beginning of the spring season. At this crucial time for agricultural societies, the act of beating the spring ox serves to awaken the dormant vitality of the earth, fostering enthusiasm and confidence among farmers to commence plowing over spring. At the same time, beyond its agricultural symbolism, the ritual holds a spiritual dimension. "Whipping the spring ox" is seen as a rite to dispel evil and seek blessings, making the ritual a cherished and multifaceted tradition in Chinese culture.

Scenes from tradition

"Celebrating the Coming of Spring" serves as a historical document, depicting scenes set against the backdrop of Mianzhu's county seat during the Qing Dynasty. The artwork immortalizes the welcoming activities of the season, as a festive precursor to Spring Festival.

"This painting is unique, being the only one that comprehensively depicts the folk activities of Spring Festival," said Ning Zhiqing, former director of the Mianzhu Administration of Preservation of Cultural Relics. "There's only this single piece on this topic. It’s a realistic portrayal, akin to a camera, presenting the life and customs of the period authentically and vividly, and offering a thorough and immersive display for the audience."