A demonstration of ancient weaving techniques at the Confucius Museum in Qufu, Shandong province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

A yellow jade horse, unearthed from the capital of the state of Lu during the Warring States Period (475-221 BC), is a star attraction at the museum.

"Standing less than 6 centimeters tall, its head raised, ears perked, and corners of the mouth slightly upturned, the piece radiates a charm that comes from its unexpected cuteness," said Yang Jinquan, deputy curator of the museum.

Inspired by the image of the yellow jade horse, the museum has developed souvenirs including fridge magnets, dolls, and ice cream.