In a modest Beijing studio, Lang Jiaziyu breathes new life into centuries-old craftsmanship as the seventh-generation inheritor of Lang Beijing Dough Figurine — a practice recognized as China's national intangible cultural heritage. His delicate edible sculptures, ranging from mythological figures to contemporary icons, now serve as cultural ambassadors bridging historical artistry with modern innovation.
First developed during the Qing Dynasty, dough figurine-making evolved from festive folk art to a refined craft under the Lang family's stewardship. "Each piece carries 200 years of ancestral wisdom," explains Lang, kneading naturally dyed rice flour into vibrant petals. "We now integrate food-safe preservatives so these artworks can travel globally without losing their essence."
This year, Lang's studio partnered with digital platforms to launch augmented reality tutorials, enabling international enthusiasts to explore the craft's intricacies. Recent exhibitions in Paris and Singapore drew record attendance, with collectors praising the art form's narrative depth.
While training apprentices in traditional techniques, Lang continues developing museum conservation standards. "Preservation isn't about freezing the past," he notes, shaping a phoenix's wings. "It's ensuring future generations can reinterpret our heritage through their own eyes."
