Classic Huishan clay figurines "Da A Fu". [Photo/Wuxi Daily]

Ancient Huishan clay figurines have been rejuvinated through innovation in recent years.

Made of shanye mud at the foot of Huishan Mountain in Liangxi district, Wuxi, Huishan clay figurines have become the city's most popular cultural product.

New images of Huishan clay figurines called NANIMOMO. [Photo/Wuxi Daily]

To bring vitality to the traditional handicraft, new images called NANIMOMO (a word meaning clay figurines in Wuxi dialect) were created in 2021 for Huishan clay figurines.

The two chubby images represent both Wuxi's traditional culture and modern atmosphere.

Since then, NANIMOMO has appeared at cultural and shopping festivals, and the China International Import Expo.

Huishan clay figurines have also co-branded with the brands of Liangxi, including Tianzi Dairy, Daddy Sweety, and YEAZECHA, to develop creative products and launched clay figurine-themed travel routes.

A NANIMOMO bookstore in Liangxi district is about to open. [Photo/Wuxi Daily]

A Huishan-clay-figurine-themed cafe was recently established on ancient Nanchang Street. In addition to a variety of clay figurines, the cafe offers a menu and creative products featuring Huishan clay figurines, including handbags.

More NANIMOMO-themed stores, including a tea house and a bookstore, will open in Liangxi district soon.

Huishan clay figurines have a recorded history of 400 years. The clay in the region is perfect for creating smooth, colorful and vivid figurines, as well as the lovable and well-known "Da A Fu", which represents hard work, kindness, happiness and helpfulness.