With the Spring Festival drawing near to usher in the Year of the Horse, a Chinese zodiac-themed toy from the Shandong Provincial Art Museum, a clay doll named "Ma Biaobiao," or whimsy pony, has rapidly captured public attention with its unruly hairstyle and endearingly cute expression.

Inspired by a Chinese painting from one of China's most renowned artists Qi Baishi, the toy features minimalist black eyes, a dynamic galloping pose, and a woolen mane designed to look deliberately unkempt.

Owners are encouraged to style the mane themselves, turning each doll into a unique, co-created artwork. This way, consumers become active participants rather than passive buyers.

"The hair is really meant for me. I can style it any way I like, and even when it's messy, it is still adorable. It actually looks quite like myself and reflects my own style. Though not exquisitely dressed at work, I like just being myself, to be free," said visitor Huang Qiuju.

"It is just fun to look at it. Especially the flowing mane that feels so unrestrained," said another visitor Ma Hongwen.

According to Cui Wentao, deputy curator of the Jinan-based museum in east China's Shandong Province, the pony's popularity stems from both its artistic roots and its emotional appeal.

"We Chinese people value the Chinese zodiac of horse as a symbol of vitality and progress. In this design, the horse becomes more playful and cute, with a fluffy mane that can be freely styled. This enhances consumer engagement with gratifying appeal, both emotionally and aesthetically," he said.