Head Play

Basic Introduction to Huan County Shadow Puppetry Shadow puppetry is an ancient folk art of the Han nationality. It originated over two thousand years ago during the Western Han Dynasty, also known as the Sheepskin Play or colloquially as Human Head Play, Shadow Play, or Oxhide Lantern Shadow. It originated in Shaanxi Province, China, matured in the Qin-Jin-Yu region during the Tang and Song Dynasties, and was most prevalent in Hebei during the Qing Dynasty. Product Characteristics The shadow puppets are characterized by their handsome and generous shapes, with bold and clear outer contours; the engraving is delicate and fluid. Historical Folklore Over two thousand years ago, Emperor Wu of Han's beloved concubine Lady Li fell ill and passed away. The emperor was so distraught that he became detached from his senses and neglected state affairs. One day, Minister Li Shaoweng came across a child playing with a cloth doll, whose shadow cast on the ground was vividly lifelike. Inspired, Li Shaoweng cut out an image of Lady Li from cotton fabric, painted it with colors, and attached wooden rods to its limbs. At night, he set up a square curtain, lit candles, and invited the emperor to sit inside…