WEIFANG, China – In anticipation of the Lunar New Year, vibrant snake lanterns featuring endearing oversized heads are captivating onlookers, presenting a charming twist on the traditionally perceived image of the reptile.
As the Chinese zodiac prepares to welcome the Year of the Snake, a workshop nestled in eastern China is diligently producing a multitude of these delightful snake lanterns. Adorned with cartoonishly large eyes and cheerful smiles, these creations are destined for display in parks, tourist attractions, and shopping centers during the Lunar New Year festivities.
"Upon closer inspection, one can discern their serpentine form, yet they evoke an undeniable sense of cuteness," remarks Wang Yongxun, proprietor of the Weifang city workshop in Shandong province.
These eye-catching lanterns, towering over the average individual, are meticulously crafted upon robust metal frames. Incorporating dragon-inspired elements, Wang notes that the snake is affectionately referred to as the "little dragon" within Chinese culture.
The Chinese zodiac, a cyclical system spanning twelve years, assigns a unique animal to each year. The Year of the Snake, commencing on January 29th, succeeds the Year of the Dragon.
While the snake embodies spirituality, fertility, and longevity in China, it can also symbolize malevolence and peril.
Despite their potential to instill fear, snakes held a revered position as guardians of the home in ancient Chinese lore, with harming them believed to invite misfortune, explains Wang Juan, a folklore authority at Peking University.
"We've intentionally softened the snake's inherent aggressiveness, thereby culturalizing it," she elaborates. "This embodies the integration of nature into the human experience and underscores the reciprocal harmony between humanity and the natural world."
Although the calendar reads 2025, the Year of the Snake remains on the horizon for countless individuals worldwide. As the Year of the Dragon gracefully bows out later this month, anticipation mounts for the forthcoming Lunar New Year.