This contemporary tiehua, as seen, depicts the Statue of Liberty. Quite visibly, this reflects a major shift in subject: a symbol of western democracy is depicted in a traditional Chinese art form; however, contemporary pieces seldom reflect political stances and are more a reflection of globalization. There are few traditional motifs in this piece, with a lack of mountains and nature altogether, yet the absence of a background nevertheless goes back to the basics of this work. In this tiehua, however, there is still a clear element of socialist realism that was developed during the early years of the CCP’s rule. Nonetheless, this piece also shows just how a market economy has altered tiehua artwork: this piece is much smaller and less elaborate than those featured in the Great Hall of the People and the like. This has a lot to do with artists’ need to make a living and to produce as many pieces as possible that everyone can afford.