The art of "infant play" in the song dynasty and the reasons for its flourishing

Abstract

The infant play motif is a significant theme in ancient Chinese visual arts, originating during the Warring States period and evolving through the Sui, Tang, and Five dynasties before reaching its peak in the Song Dynasty. In addition to being a common subject in painting, it also frequently appeared in tomb murals and decorative arts. The flourishing of the commodity economy, the rise of the urban merchant class, policies favoring culture over militarism, and a rich cultural heritage all played key roles in the widespread popularity of infant play imagery during the Song Dynasty, making it an artistic treasure that reflects the social life of the time and embodies idealized visions for the future.