East Is Red

Traditional Chinese Papercut Symbolism of the Rising Sun

This vintage 1972 Chinese propaganda print showcases a traditional red papercut design titled The East Is Red. The striking visual narrative features a large sun rising over rolling sea waves, with sun rays beaming outwards to symbolize ideological enlightenment and revolutionary dawn.

Sunflowers and Communal Devotion during the Cultural Revolution

Created collectively by folk artists from a people’s commune, the artwork incorporates detailed sunflowers blooming at the bottom, traditionally representing the masses turning towards leadership. The elegant Chinese characters in the sky reinforce the patriotic and historical theme of the Cultural Revolution era.

Credit: The Claremont Colleges