Steamed dough figurines made by Jiang Sha are pictured in Yuncheng, Shanxi Province on January 8, 2025. /CFP

Steamed dough figurines made by Jiang Sha are pictured in Yuncheng, Shanxi Province on January 8, 2025. /CFP

A tiger-shaped dough figurine is being crafted by an artisan in Yuncheng, Shanxi Province on January 8, 2025. /CFP

A tiger-shaped dough figurine is being crafted by an artisan in Yuncheng, Shanxi Province on January 8, 2025. /CFP

Artisan Jiang Sha showcases steamed buns bearing the Chinese character "fu" (blessing) in Yuncheng, Shanxi Province on January 8, 2025. /CFP

Artisan Jiang Sha showcases steamed buns bearing the Chinese character "fu" (blessing) in Yuncheng, Shanxi Province on January 8, 2025. /CFP

Artisans show steamed buns bearing four Chinese characters spelling out "Happy New Year" in Yuncheng, Shanxi Province on January 8, 2025. /CFP

Artisans show steamed buns bearing four Chinese characters spelling out "Happy New Year" in Yuncheng, Shanxi Province on January 8, 2025. /CFP

Steamed dough figurines are being packaged for sale in Yuncheng, Shanxi Province on January 8, 2025. /CFP

Steamed dough figurines are being packaged for sale in Yuncheng, Shanxi Province on January 8, 2025. /CFP

In Yuncheng, Shanxi Province, artisan Jiang Sha showcases her handmade colorful steamed dough figurines, known as "huamo" in Chinese, as the Spring Festival in the Year of the Snake approaches.

Using traditional techniques, Jiang crafts her creations from white flour, enhanced with natural dyes extracted from fresh fruits and vegetables. Her works feature cartoon representations of the Chinese zodiac, the character "fu" (blessing), and festive motifs like the lion dance, each symbolizing good fortune and prosperity. These vibrant and meaningful figurines are in high demand, adding a festive touch to the holiday market.