independent.co.uk
Viral Phoenix Coronet Magnets
Highly sought-after fridge magnets inspired by a Ming Dynasty phoenix coronet at the National Museum of China, highlighting the popularity of museum-inspired merchandise.
English
United Kingdom
ChinaLifestyleHigh DemandSouvenirsMuseum MerchandiseCultural Artifacts
National Museum Of ChinaBeijing Ancient Architecture MuseumHangzhou Museum
Empress XiaoduanLiao FeiYuZhouLi Shangyi
- What is the level of sales achieved by the magnets?
- Over 80,000 fridge magnets have been sold in just three months, generating over 10 million yuan in revenue for the National Museum of China. This high demand highlights the popularity of museum-inspired merchandise and its contribution to the museum's financial success.
- How is the sale of the magnets managed, given the high demand?
- Due to high demand, a numbering system has been implemented to manage the sale of the magnets, limiting purchases to two per person with 1,300 numbers available daily. This system is necessary to ensure equitable distribution of the limited supply.
- What is the design inspiration for the popular fridge magnets?
- The phoenix coronet fridge magnets are inspired by Empress Xiaoduan's headdress from the Ming Dynasty, featuring nine phoenixes and dragons, pearls, rubies, and sapphires. They are meticulously crafted in wood and metal styles, replicating the coronet's intricate details.
- What wider trend does the success of these magnets illustrate?
- The success of the phoenix coronet magnets reflects a broader trend in China of museums selling unique, culturally inspired merchandise. Other examples include magnets based on the heavenly palace cauldron ceiling and a "little pink cup", all enjoying strong sales and showcasing the synergy between cultural artifacts and creative products.
- Describe the response of visitors to the popularity and availability of these magnets.
- The magnets' popularity has led to long queues at the museum gift shop, with some visitors arriving as early as 6:30 am to secure a purchase. Many visitors express their dedication to obtaining these unique souvenirs, even prioritizing them over viewing the museum's other exhibits.