Until the mid-20th century. nianhua (New Year woodblock prints) were the most common form of household decoration in China. As the title of the genre suggests. most nianhua were designed to facilitate New Year celebrations. and with their themes of enduring optimism and brilliant colours they brought a spark of light into an otherwise dreary mid-winter environment. Once posted. however. they would stay in place. continuing to influence the spiritual. social and cultural values of the family long after the initial festival had passed.

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