Antique Puppet Head with Top Bun, China (5274)

Description

Puppet theatre has traditionally assumed a major role in Chinese religious rituals and honoring major life and historical events. Local productions with beautifully carved puppets, music, drama and costumes instilled societal and cultural values as well as providing entertainment to audiences of all ages and educating provincial ones.

Carved with precise details from one piece of wood, this male puppet head like most puppets has a tapering shaft and a hook at the rear for storing during performances. With a calm, peaceful expression, eyes cast down, pursed lips, round bun and half-smile, it could have been used for religious or secular purposes. With a change of the costume and headgear, it could have represented a Buddhist, Taoist or Chinese Popular Religion personality or deity, an official, a folk person or another secular character in a range of many presentations.

In good condition with expected losses, the original white base coat and  black and red paint highlighting on facial features have faded. The top side, and rear of the head were black, and, given its substantial age, it was likely repainted a number of times when in use but is now down to the original brownish color. In good condition, it displays much wear consistent with its age and use. Mounted on a contemporary frosted acrylic base.