These elaborate cutting designs are created with scissors or artwork knives and can include a variety of shapes, such as symbols and animals.

These cut-paper decorations are often glued to the exterior of windows, so the light from the inside shines through the negative space of the cutout.

According to archaeological records, paper-cutting originates from the 6th century, although some believe that its history could be traced back as far as the Warring States period (around 3 BC), long before paper was invented.

At that time, people used other thin materials, like leaves, silver foil, silk and even leather, to carve negative-space patterns.

[3] During the Song dynasty, Chinese papercutting developed into a more advanced technique, with trained artisans creating more complex artworks.

Its continual appeal reflects the Chinese people's creativity, with designs expressing cultural ideas and values.

In contrast, the weather in the northwest of China is usually dry, making it possible to find cut-paper art made in the Northern dynasties in Turpan, Sinkiang province.

Cut-paper art designed for windows is usually cut in a freeform manner, except for the flower pattern found in the corner.

The theme of cut-paper window decorations varies widely, the most popular of which are based on the stories of traditional Chinese opera.

They liven up walls, windows, doors, columns, mirrors, lamps and lanterns in homes and are also used on presents or are given as gifts themselves.

Designs may also show people's gratitude towards life, such as paper-cuttings of a doll with two twisted hairs on each side of the head, or fish swimming through lotus plants.

The character 囍 is commonly used for weddings, symbolizes double happiness and the hope for a fulfilling marriage.

Common Chinese papercutting motifs include representations of harvests, animals, and mythical stories such as the carp jumping over the dragon gate.

In many areas of China, especially in the north, paper-cuttings are pasted to windows to express happiness for the new season, a tradition that has been practiced since the Song and Yuan dynasties.

Chinese papercutting involves cutting intricate, exquisite designs from a single or multiple layers of paper with scissors or artwork knives.

The construction methods of papercutting involve several steps, including the selection of paper materials, specifically types and colors depending on the desired effect.

Finally, the paper cutout is opened up to reveal the exquisite design, which can be further enhanced with additional details such as coloring and shading.