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Hi all! I have been attempting to research the value of a Chinese woodblock I have owned for some time and always been curious about. When I uploaded a photo of my woodblock to Google Images, I learned that it is a Yangliuqing New Year Painting of a Door God (Jingde?) and found that there are a few very similar woodblocks in speciality museums, exhibitions and university collections, which leads me to believe it may be special. I wonder if you could tell me something about my woodblock and provide a rough estimate as to its value, as I am not sure what to do with it. I am a few attaching photos for your review. The woodblock measures approximately 14” by 22 1/2”. Thank you in advance for your time and any insights you might be able to provide me with!

Hi Rachel - good research! Have little to add except that these were made at Yangliuqing from the late nineteenth century until the 1940s or so, with perhaps a few more produced in the 1980s. Based on colours & printing I'd date this to the early 20C. They were actually made in unimaginable numbers, but were pasted up on doors and torn down and replaced each year, so relatively few survived - bit like our own Xmas decorations. Europeans in China brought them home as souvenirs because they were bright and colourful and easy to transport. So not common, but also not especially rare either. Value upwads of £50, perhaps £100 on a really good day. Don't suppose you have a pair?

Thank you so much for your thoughtful and detailed reply! It makes complete sense that artwork mass-produced on such fragile paper often doesn't survive, which is why I couldn't find many examples. Sadly, I don't have the mate to this piece, but I'm always looking. Best wishes for a happy and healthy 2026!

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