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Cultural Context

Theatrical performance.

History Of Use

First documented evidence of shadow puppetry in China was C.E. 960-1126. Puppeteering is a family profession performed at festivals and religious celebrations. Before 1900, no women were allowed to see these performances in public. Performances were, therefore, held in their homes. Now appreciated by all ages and classes. Puppets vary in size according to regional styles. Anatomy and construction of figures similar throughout. Puppets portray idealized types. The solid faces are incised and painted with designs which indicate the figures' personalities. Hairstyles and headdresses are designed with appropriate shaped motifs and colours to match characters' status. More elaborate costumes represent characters of higher rank. Peking puppets: faces on profile; beards and headdresses carved as part of head; arms attached at same spot on opposite side of torsos; jointed at waists, hips, knees, shoulders, elbows, wrists and hands in 2-3 parts. Originally used donkey skin, now use same, but also cowhide, sheepskin, water buffalo, and pigskin. Operating sticks made of water buffalo horn.

Description

A large shadow puppet of a male Chinese warrior with a black chin beard and a long black moustache. Floral warrior hat. Wearing long sleeved floral robes with matching trousers. Flowers are pink and yellow with green leaves. Edges of sleeves and trouser bottoms are black as are his shoes. Plastic rivets at shoulders, elbows, hands, hips, and knees. One handling stick is at an angle facing down tied to the ear and the hat.