08/09/2026
I brought two Shiwan mudmen figures to the shop today. These are vintage, from around the 1950s, and they have an interesting history.
Shiwan refers to an area in China that has a long history (5,000 yrs+) of pottery-making. Mudmen were originally created to populate miniature landscape designs, or penjing, providing life and narrative to a scene. Later, they became popular in bonsai, adding scale and character.
For this reason, they really look amazing sitting in front of a landscape photo, painting, or even a plate with a landscape scene like a Blue Willow or British Castles. Note that clothing is glazed, while faces and hands are unglazed to mimic natural texture, and facial features are expressive and detailed.
Game players $28; Tiger $18
Shipping is available, dm for a quote
Available at The Rustic Chaos Vintage Market
252 Highgate Commons, St Albans VT
Open Mon-Sat 10-6 and Sun 10-5
The Rustic Chaos