The image above shows three types of scorpions, which are traditional Chinese toys used for performance and entertainment. When selecting a scorpion, it is usually possible to lift the rafter vertically and flip it in the air. It's recommended to turn it in the air for about a week to ensure proper balance. The chin rest has a diameter of 2.8 cm, but it tends to flip easily in the air, making it difficult to lift straight up. Controlling it can be inconvenient when trying to kick out patterns. Additionally, if the squatting (the base) is too large, the elasticity is low, making it hard to flip and resulting in a clumsy appearance.
The feathers on the scorpion are typically between 12 to 15 cm long. If they are too short, control becomes difficult. The length of the feathers affects how well the scorpion flips. The weight of the base also influences feather length—when the base is slightly heavier, the feathers should be longer, and vice versa. In fact, the weight of the chin can often be determined by the length of the feathers. The key is that the scorpion should be easy to handle and manipulate during performance.
Here are a few traditional methods for making a scorpion:
1. **Carving Method**
Materials: A piece of thick cloth about 20 cm long and 0.7 cm wide, a copper plate with a diameter of 2.8 cm and thickness of 0.1 cm (or iron or other metal if unavailable), chicken or eagle feathers around 12 to 15 cm long, and some glue. Tools include scissors and a hand drill.
Practice: Cut a small opening in the center of the cloth, then punch a 0.4 cm hole in the copper plate. Cross the cloth over the copper plate, insert the feather into the hole, and tie it with thread. This is a traditional Beijing method known for its elegance and ease of use in various performances.
2. **Feather Duster Method**
There are several variations of this technique. One involves using chicken tail feathers, a copper coin, two small cloth strips, and 60 cm of cotton thread. After cutting the feathers neatly, bundle them at the root and attach them to the coin. Another variation uses a circular cloth with a central copper coin, and adds short fluffs and feathers in a propeller-like arrangement. A third version uses larger feathers from chickens, ducks, or geese, folded and sewn onto the cloth for more durability.
3. **Bottom System (Beijing Style)**
Materials include a thin strip of fabric, a small plastic tube, a copper plate, a long feather, and cotton threads. The process involves threading the fabric through the tube, passing it through the copper plate, and securing the feather at the base. Adjustments can be made by changing the size of the tube or the weight of the coin until the scorpion flips and balances well. Most finished scorpions weigh between 9-15 grams.
Making a good scorpion is not an easy task. As a saying goes, "Stepping on a scorpion is more painful than stepping on me." According to Guo Qizheng’s book *Kicking the Scorpion*, one can judge the skill level of a performer by the quality of their scorpion. The art of making and using scorpions has evolved together over time.
The size, weight, and design of the scorpion vary depending on local customs and playing styles. The bottom system is especially popular in Beijing, where the scorpion is elegant, well-balanced, and ideal for both performance and practice. It can also be adapted for use with chicken feathers or other materials.
(Original content adapted from *Kicking the Scorpion* by Mr. Guo Qizheng.)
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