Introduction to Guanzhong Shadow Puppetry

Guanzhong shadow puppetry is one of the very ancient Han dramatic art forms. Shadow puppet is a general term for the products of shadow puppet shows and shadow puppet figures (including scenes, props and scenery). Shadow puppetry was first born in the Western Han Dynasty two thousand years ago and emerged in the Northern Song Dynasty. Also known as sheepskin play, commonly known as head play and shadow play, it originated in Shaanxi, China. Shaanxi Guanzhong shadow puppets have long been famous throughout the country. In addition to their heroic, vigorous and high-pitched singing, the shadow puppets are also beautifully made and fascinating. Guanzhong shadow puppet carving is good at using refined outlines, exaggerated decorative patterns, sparse and dense, virtual and real techniques, and exquisite and meticulous carving skills to express the appearance, identity, clothing and personality of the characters in the play, and achieve the goal of form and spirit. Both and profoundly touching.