At the heart of this design lies the desire to instill a sense of pride and identity in children through the exploration of traditional Chinese culture. The Shangfang Large Seal Script is not merely a toy but a cultural conduit, allowing young minds to visually engage with and memorize traditional Chinese knowledge. The building block set serves as a tangible link to the past, fostering respect and admiration for the artistic and cultural achievements of ancient China.
The uniqueness of the Shangfang Large Seal Script set stems from its inspiration—the venerated "The Book of Family Names," a cornerstone in the preservation of Chinese family names and characters for millennia. This educational tool employs the mortise and tenon technique, a testament to China's enduring architectural legacy, to create a hands-on experience that is as instructive as it is enjoyable. The design team has meticulously reimagined over 500 family names from the classic text, ensuring that each building block is a piece of history.
From a technical standpoint, the Shangfang Large Seal Script is a marvel of sustainable design. Crafted from a custom gold masterbatch, the blocks boast consistent color and quality, with an emphasis on environmental responsibility. The use of ABS molded material ensures durability and chemical stability, making the set not only a source of knowledge but also an eco-friendly choice for conscious consumers.
The design's complexity is evident in its engineering. The reclassification of font structures and the innovative piece and insert structure required a creative and technically demanding approach. The result is a building block set that is both a playful puzzle and a cultural text, allowing for the splicing together of history and fun. The design team, including Huang Zhong, LI Jiuzhou, Wang Mingling, and Gao Qiang, has overcome significant challenges to bring this project to fruition.
Expected to hit the market in June 2024, the Shangfang Large Seal Script has already garnered recognition, securing the Iron A' Design Award in the Toys, Games and Hobby Products Design category. This accolade is a testament to the design's successful integration of industry best practices and its contribution to a better world through the joy of learning. As players immerse themselves in the construction of each character, they are not just building blocks; they are building bridges to a rich cultural legacy.
In conclusion, the Shangfang Large Seal Script by Beijing Xingchen Wanqian Technology is more than a toy; it's a celebration of heritage, a tool for education, and a testament to the power of innovative design in fostering cultural understanding. As this project moves towards its market release, it stands as a beacon of how play can be infused with profound cultural significance, shaping the minds and hearts of the next generation.
Project Designers: Zhong Huang
Image Credits: Zhong Huang
Project Team Members: Huang Zhong, LI Jiuzhou, Wang Mingling, Gao Qiang
Project Name: Shangfang Large Seal Script
Project Client: Beijing Xingchen Wanqian Technology Co., Ltd