Usually translated as Rabbit God figurines, Tu’re Ye are figurines that are unique to Beijing and represent a tradition that is practiced during the mid-autumn festival. Families pay their respects to the Rabbit God, that is part man, part rabbit. Praying to the Rabbit God is meant to bring peace and good luck. These figures are usually made from clay and therefore very fragile. Before Chinese New Year, if the Rabbit God has not broken, it is smashed to remove all the old energy and create space for a new Rabbit God. Coming in all shapes and sizes, these quirky little rabbits are another example of China’s rich handcrafted traditions.
Update: June 10, 2021
