A Zhangping farmers' lacquer painting named Welcoming the New Bride. [Tang Yiping / for chinadaily.com.cn]

Farmers' lacquer painting in Zhangping, Fujian province, is a unique folk art that describes vibrant rural life in China and promotes traditional culture.

The art originated in Xinqiao town during the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911). During the 12th lunar month, villagers would use bamboo to make the 12 zodiac animals, cover them with paper or cloth, and then paint various patterns on them with pigments. The paintings were thought to bring good weather and a bountiful harvest in the coming year.