Ceramic Miniatures Are So Cute They’ll Melt Your Heart

Handmade animal figurines have definitely gained traction over the past few years, on sites like Etsy. These small artisanal goods bring a little more joy into our lives, especially during a time when many of us are feeling isolated, sad, or lonely.

Lithops Studio is one of those companies, and they aim to lighten the emotional load that many of us experience. The creator, Chien Nie, says she made her ceramic creations with the hope that they “help bring a little light to the quiet place within you. Slow down, breathe, and be present.” She explains that she sends out blessings with each of her work and messages.

In a sense, these little ceramic creatures and illustrations represent meditation and mindfulness. They’re a reminder to clear the clutter and make room for calm and lightness.

Chien Nie always shares her process alongside her creations, in the caption. Take this family of foxes, for instance. She shows us the steps from pre-firing to post-glaze firing, and more. The foxes have tiny houses on their backs that can hold sprigs and/or incense sticks.

Similar to Nie’s unique house foxes, are these irresistible teeny lemon bears! She asks us: “when life brings you lemons, would you take them if they were toted on a tiny bear’s back?” The answer is obviously yes. This is a better way of telling someone to turn their lemons into lemonade.