Chinese Beijing Opera Female Servant Apparels Costumes and Headdress The Mirror of Fortune Traditional Peking Opera Elderly Woman Dress Dame Garment Peking Opera, also known as Beijing Opera, is a traditional Chinese art form that combines music, dance, acrobatics, and drama.

It has a rich history dating back to the late 18th century and is renowned for its elaborate costumes, makeup, and intricate movements.

Among the various roles in Peking Opera, the elderly woman or "dame" is one of the most iconic and beloved characters.

Her elegant attire and graceful movements are a testament to the beauty and grace of this ancient art form.

The dame's costume is a symbol of her status and wealth.

It consists of a long robe with intricate embroidery, often adorned with gold and silver threads.

The robe is typically made of silk or other luxurious materials and is worn over a loose-fitting undergarment called a "yuqing."

The dame's headdress, or "mao," is another important aspect of her costume.

It can be made of various materials such as feathers, flowers, or even real hair.

The mao is designed to complement the dame's outfit and enhance her overall appearance.

In addition to her costume, the dame's makeup is also an essential part of her performance.

She wears a thick layer of white powder on her face to create a pale complexion, which helps to highlight her features and make her look more youthful.

Her eyes are usually painted black or red, while her lips are often tinted with bright colors such as red or pink.

The makeup is carefully applied to create a striking contrast against her white dress.

The dame's movements are also highly choreographed and require years of practice to perfect.

She moves gracefully and fluidly, using her body to convey emotions and tell stories.

Her movements are often accompanied by the sound of traditional instruments such as the erhu or pipa, which add to the overall atmosphere of the performance.

In conclusion, the dame's costume, makeup, and movements are all integral parts of her character in Peking Opera.

They reflect the elegance and grace of this ancient art form and showcase the skill and dedication required to perform it successfully.