New Year picture exhibition opens in Beijing

New Year picture exhibition opens in Beijing

Posting Nianhua, a kind of colored wood block printing, is a traditional Chinese custom that is said to chase away evil spirits. It is believed to bring blessings and peace to the family during the Chinese New Year.

An exhibition dedicated to the ancient craft has just opened at Beijing's Gongwangfu, also known as Prince Gong's Palace.

At Beijing's Prince Gong's Palace, six time-honored houses for printing Nianhua, or new year pictures, have brought their best selection.

The practice dates back more than 500 years. The new year pictures are usually posted during the Chinese Lunar New year, representing expectations of a prosperous life.

The Gaomi new year pictures from East China's Shandong province are different from others, and are known for their bold and vigorous colors and their vivid depiction of everyday life.

"From this exhibition we can see the different new year pictures from different regions, all with its distinctive style. And it's vital that we keep the art craft and the tradition alive," said Sun Jianjun,a member of National Committee of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

The exhibition runs until mid April.