China Media Group (CMG) unveiled the official mascot for the 2026 Spring Festival Gala, known as "Chunwan," on December 18.
This year's mascot consists of four horse characters: Qiqi, Jiji, Chichi, and Qingqing. The production team explained that the image of these four horses running together conveys a message of dynamism and hope for the new year.
The mascot design was inspired by various representations of horses throughout Chinese history, with each character reflecting a different historical background and symbolic meaning.
Qiqi draws its motif from the "Yizhun," a bronze artifact from the Western Zhou Dynasty. In keeping with the meaning of its name, Qiqi is depicted in a bluish-black hue, emphasizing a calm and elegant image.
Jiji is based on the "Heavenly Horse" (Tianma) from the Han Dynasty. Its energetic running posture was inspired by the "Galloping Bronze Horse," a national treasure, symbolizing power and dynamism.
Chichi was inspired by the "Sanhuama," a famous horse of the Tang Dynasty. Sanhuama is known for its mane styled like flower petals and appears as an ideal horse in Tang-era sculptures and records. Chichi embodies a confident and dignified presence.
Qingqing takes inspiration from the Przewalski's horse, the only surviving wild horse species. The production team stated that through this character, they aimed to convey the value of nature and life, as well as the meaning of coexistence between humans and nature.
China Media Group expressed, "We hope that these four horse characters will bring bright and positive energy to viewers as they welcome the new year."
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