Shadow plays are a folk art originated in rural areas of northwest China's Gansu, Shannxi and Ningxia provinces. Such art was popular between 14th and 19th Century, which is the Ming and Qing Dynasty in China. Figures used in the play look pretty and charming and carving technique requires high skill.
The material used for shadow plays is the skin of the ox. People choose those skin which is durable and soft with just the right thickness. People first clean and dry the skin. Then they draw the outline on the skin and carve it. Then they put it in water to add color and take it out to iron it, which is the most difficult yet important step. Lastly, the skin is dried and bound together for performance.
The two figures in the picture are the supreme deity of Taoism and the Lao-tzu by Taoists. Craft of the Lao-tzu by Taoists are complicated and the figure can be moved flexibly. The main colors used are red, yellow, black and GREen. Yet the figure can display more subtle colors with complicated patterns.
The supreme deity of Taoism has long and thin eyes, small mouth and steep bridge of the nose, giving people an impression that he is mild and generous. The Lao-tzu by Taoists has round eyes, flat nose and pointed forehead, looking to be energetic and vital.
Shadow plays emphasize on performing. By moving every part of the body while matching with inspiring strains of songs, the whole plays display strong local characteristics.
Shadow plays in the Gansu province produce list of plays. The picture depicts a story in the Sui and Tang dynasty. The figures and stage prop are carefully carved so that one can't help thinking the play must be interesting. Bright colors are used for decoration and different parts of the body are properly organized for performing skilfully.
