In a vibrant cultural exchange during the lead-up to the Spring Festival of the Year of the Horse, two Egyptian students immersed themselves in Tianjin’s ancient artistic traditions. Ahmed Mohamed Saleh and Hassan Sameh Hassan Elsayed journeyed to Yangliuqing Ancient Town to participate in the time-honored practice of creating traditional woodblock New Year paintings—a cherished local custom for welcoming the Chinese New Year.
Yangliuqing woodblock printing, recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage item since 2006, represents one of northern China’s most significant Spring Festival folk arts. Originating in the late Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and flourishing throughout the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), these distinctive artworks are celebrated for their vibrant coloration, dynamic figures, and propitious themes that have become integral to Tianjin’s New Year celebrations.
Under the expert guidance of Huo Qingyou—the sixth-generation inheritor of this traditional craft—the students embarked on their artistic journey in a authentic workshop. To align with the approaching Year of the Horse in China’s zodiac cycle, Huo prepared a specially carved woodblock featuring the bold Chinese character for “horse.”
The Egyptian visitors carefully handled small brushes known locally as “tangzi,” applying ink to the intricately carved woodblock following precise techniques. “Brush in circles,” Huo instructed patiently, emphasizing the importance of complete coverage. “Ensure the ink reaches every corner of the block.” The process demanded both careful attention and rhythmic motion as they repeatedly moved their brushes across the surface to achieve even ink distribution.
After confirming full coverage, they firmly pressed paper onto the inked surface, smoothing it meticulously from top to bottom. When the sheet was finally lifted, a powerful and confident “horse” character emerged—a successful creation that delighted both students.
“2026 marks my zodiac year since I was born in the Year of the Horse,” revealed Hassan Sameh Hassan Elsayed. “I plan to bring this print back to Egypt to share with my friends, allowing them to experience the spirit of Chinese New Year through this beautiful tradition.”