Chinese paper cutting (剪纸) is one of the oldest folk arts — cutting intricate designs from paper dating to at least the 6th century CE.
Symbolism
Dragons represent power; phoenixes symbolize the empress; bats (蝠, “fu”) are puns for “blessing”; fish (鱼, “yu”) represents abundance; 囍 (double happiness) is essential for wedding decorations.
Red is the dominant color — for luck, joy, and festivity.
Explore more in our Chinese Culture Complete Guide.