Material:cowhide

Origin:Shanxi of China

Handmade by the Chinese traditional craftsmen who have been making shadowplay for over 40 years


Chinese Shadow,which can also be called "Chinese Shadow Play or Chinese Shadow Puppet play", is one of the most ancient genre of drama in China. It came into being in the Han Dynasty (206 B.C.-A.D.220) and has more than two thousand years'history.

Chinese shadow artists first carve out the lines of the design and then dye them in bright colors. These transparent leather puppets become very lively and beautiful under the lantern light. With strong local characteristics, the shadow puppets are folk handiworks and a wisdom crystallization of Chinese shadow play artists through the ages. The artistic effect of the play is produced through light, screen, music, singing, and puppet operation. The shadow play is widely stated " a magic, lightning-like art" and win people's high praise in many countrys'visit.

The puppets,known as Piying or "skin silhouettes" are made of animal skins.The shadow puppets of Shaanxi Province are elegant,simple,and classically beautirul,perhaps because the province was the capital of Qin,Han,Sui,and Tang dynasties.And puppet makers in Shanxi paid special attention to the eyes because they are the most telling revealers of character.

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Rich Artistic Connotation & Historical Background:

This artwork is a traditional Chinese hand-drawn shadow play called "Liu Bang", which showcases the unique charm and historical significance of ancient Chinese culture.

Shadow play is an ancient art form that creates vivid visual effects by drawing characters on a white background and projecting light onto a wall.

This skill requires artists to have exquisite painting techniques and an understanding of light and shadow.

In this shadow play, we can see a heroic figure dressed in a red battle robe and holding a long sword - Liu Bang.

He is riding a horse and seems to be engaged in a fierce battle.

The scene is full of movement and tension, showcasing the essence of ancient Chinese war culture.

In addition to the picture itself, this shadow play also has rich historical significance.

Liu Bang was a famous politician and military general in Chinese history, who played an important role in the establishment of the Han Dynasty.

By appreciating this shadow play, we can learn about the political, military, and cultural background of ancient Chinese society, as well as people's admiration and reverence for heroic figures.

Overall, this traditional Chinese hand-drawn shadow play attracts people's attention with its exquisite pictures and rich historical connotations.

It is not only an art form but also an important part of Chinese traditional culture, representing the wisdom and creativity of the Chinese people.