Sugar Figurines — The Sweet Chinese Folk Art

Sugar figurines are an ancient and fascinating Chinese traditional craft. Using just a lump of maltose syrup, skilled artisans can create lifelike animals, characters, and mythological figures. They captivate both children and adults. This craft is not only a form of street art but also a carrier of Chinese creativity and wisdom. It is recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage.

This article introduces the history, techniques, and locations where foreign tourists can experience this sweet performance in China.

1. History and Evolution

Sugar figurines, also known as “Tang Ren’er” or “Tang Gong,” originated in the Tang Dynasty. In ancient times, they were called “Tang Gong” and often used in offerings to heaven, ancestors, or deities. Due to their exquisite shapes, they were regarded as high-quality tributes.

By the Ming Dynasty, sugar figurines evolved from ritual items into a popular folk craft on the streets. Vendors’ calls filled the alleys, and sugar figurines became children’s favorite treats.

Legendary Origins

Legend says sugar figurines originated with Liu Bowen in the early Ming period. One story claims that during Zhu Yuanzhang’s northeastern campaign, Liu Bowen coated straw figures with maltose syrup to lure away poisonous bees released by the enemy. This led to a great victory. The sugar figurines were then named and used to reward soldiers.

Another tale suggests that Zhu Yuanzhang planned to burn the meritorious officials’ building. After Liu Bowen escaped, he sold sugar figurines for a living, creating this craft. Every Mid-Autumn Festival (the 15th day of the 8th lunar month), sugar figurine artisans gather to pay tribute to Liu Bowen, honoring their “master.”

Flourishing in Major Cities

During the Northern Song Dynasty, cities like Kaifeng had dense populations. Sugar figurines thrived as street art, attracting skilled craftsmen. By the Qing Dynasty, the shapes of sugar figurines became more diverse. They included animals, birds, and mythological characters.

In modern times, with many toys and snacks available, sugar figurines are no longer rare for children. Yet artisans have revitalized the craft through innovation. For example, Ma Jiantang from Kaifeng, a third-generation artisan, developed new designs like “Dog Catching Rabbit” and “Divine Ox Delivering Apples.” Some parts are only 0.1 mm thick. His craftsmanship is exquisite and beloved by tourists from home and abroad. Today, sugar figurines are not only childhood memories but also a window into Chinese traditional culture.

2. Making Techniques

Although sugar figurines may seem simple, mastering them requires years of practice. It tests the artisan’s dexterity, eyesight, and patience.

Step 1: Boiling the Sugar

Mix high-quality white sugar and water in a 2:1 ratio. Boil on high heat until large bubbles form and the color lightens. After about 20 minutes, the syrup turns caramel yellow with fine bubbles. Reduce to low heat and cook another 3–5 minutes. Cool to a sticky consistency. A clear and glossy syrup is the key to success.

Step 2: Pulling the Sugar

Take a piece of hot syrup and repeatedly stretch it to increase elasticity. Like pulling noodles, this makes it soft and pliable for shaping.

Step 3: Blowing and Shaping

Pinch the syrup into a bun shape, seal it on the finger, and pull it into a thin rod. Hold it in the mouth and blow while shaping with the hands. This step is the hardest. It must be completed within 90 seconds; otherwise, the sugar hardens. Air must be blown evenly. Too strong and it breaks; too weak and it won’t form. Artisans need quick eyes and nimble hands.

Step 4: Detailing

Use syrup to add eyes, whiskers, and other details. Insert a bamboo stick. A vivid sugar figurine is complete.

Sugar figurines come in hundreds of designs, including the twelve zodiac animals, Sun Wukong, flower baskets, and more. They are full of playful charm and cultural flavor. Artisans must endure high temperatures, maintain steady hands, and master techniques like blowing, pulling, pinching, and pressing to make the figurines lifelike.

3. Where Foreign Tourists Can See Sugar Figurines

Foreign visitors wanting to experience sugar figurines can find artisans at traditional markets, temple fairs, or pedestrian streets in tourist attractions. This is especially true during Chinese festivals such as Spring Festival, Lantern Festival, and Mid-Autumn Festival.

Old city streets and historical night markets in cities like Beijing, Kaifeng, Xi’an, and Chengdu are common places to see them. Artisans usually set up stalls from dusk till night, blowing sugar and calling out to attract tourists.

Close-Up Experience

Folk culture villages or intangible cultural heritage exhibitions often feature sugar figurine performances. Visitors can watch up close or even try making them. Tourists are advised to check local festival dates or ask guides for recommended cultural streets and night markets. Bring curiosity and enjoy the sweet craft.

4. The Charm and Heritage of Sugar Figurines

Sugar figurines are more than a craft; they are a cultural heritage. Using simple syrup, they display the creativity and wisdom of Chinese artisans.

Despite modern toys’ influence, artisans like Ma Jiantang and Zheng Zongxiang continue innovating. They strive to bring sugar figurines to the international stage. Visitors not only savor the sweetness but also feel the warmth of Chinese culture. This craft hopes to continue into the new era, extending beyond childhood memories into a living cultural tradition.