Paper-cut of the Bai People

        Paper-cut refers to cut or curve out decorative patterns on paper with scissors or gravers, which is a folk art used for decoration or other folk activities. The paper-out of the Bai people has long been popular among the Bai people. Its pattern mainly adopts traditional themes such as twelve Chinese zodiac signs, good luck and wealth, with obvious local characteristics of the ethnic group. The paper-out is precious material data for studying the folk custom and art of the Bai people since it integrates into the social life of Bai people, displays their social cognition, moral concept, practical experience, ideal of life and aesthetic taste, and contains rich cultural and historical information. It has been included in the first Ethnic Folk Traditional Culture Protection List publicized by the Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture Government in September, 2005.