剪纸（paper cutting）是中国最为流行的传统民间艺术形式之一。中国剪纸有一千五百多年的历史，在明朝和清朝时期（the Ming and Qing Dynasties）特别流行。人们常用剪纸美化居家环境。特别是在春节和婚庆期间，剪纸被用来装饰门窗和房间，以增加喜庆的气氛。剪纸最常用的颜色是红色，象征健康和兴旺。中国剪纸在世界各地很受欢迎，经常被用作馈赠外国友人的礼物。
Paper cutting is one of China’s most popular traditional folk arts.Chinese paper cutting has a history of more than 1,500 years.It was widespread particularly during the Ming and Qing Dynasties.People often beautify their homes with paper cuttings.During the Spring Festival and wedding celebrations, in particular, paper cuttings are used to decorate doors, windows and rooms in order to enhance the joyous atmosphere.The color most frequently used in paper cutting is red, which symbolizes health and prosperity.Chinese paper cutting is very popular around the world and it is often given as a present to foreign friends.
