12. Each different part of China has its own special forms of traditional art. These usually try to show the things that are important in life, such as love, beauty and family. The most (1)
things, from paper to clay (黏土) to bamboo, are turned into objects (物品) of beauty.
(2)
Chinese history, sky lanterns were first used by Zhuge Kongming. He sent them out to ask for help when in (3)
. Today, sky lanterns are used at festivals and other celebrations. They are made of bamboo and covered with paper. When the lanterns are lit, they (4)
rise into the air like small hot﹣air balloons for all to see. They are seen as bright (5)
of happiness and good wishes.
Paper cutting has been around for over 1, 500 years. Paper cutting sounds very easy but it can be (6)
to do. The most common pictures are flowers, animals, and things about Chinese history. During the Spring Festival, they are (7)
windows, doors and walls as symbols of wishes for good luck and a happy new year.
Chinese clay art is famous because the clay pieces are so small but they look very real. The pieces are carefully — (8)
by hand from a very special kind of clay and then allowed to air-dry. (9)
drying, they are fired at a very high heat. They are then polished (抛光) and painted. These small pieces of clay art show the love (10)
all Chinese people have for life and beauty.