Ancient china

Ancient China research

The History of Chinese Mask

China has a rich and colorful cultural history, and masks have played a major role in Chinese tradition for thousands of years. Chinese masks, depending on their function, are divided into several different categories, such as sorcerers' masks, Tibetan masks, shaman masks and theatrical masks. Today, masks continue to be of great artistic and entertainment value. Also, Chinese masks have become highly desired items by collectors worldwide.

Theatrical Performances
Masks are frequently worn or painted on faces in Chinese operas and other theater productions. The facial makeup dates back to the Song (960 to1279 A.D.) or Yuan (1271 to1368 A.D.) dynasties, or earlier. Murals in tombs from this period of time have similar-looking made-up faces. The face painting was perfected during the Ming Dynasty (1368 to1644 A.D.), when colors began to portray varying personality traits that are still seen in present day "Jingju," or Beijing operas. Red stands for being devoted, brave, upright and loyal. Guan Yu, general of the Three Kingdoms in 220 to 280 A.D., is depicted with a red face because of his steadfastness on behalf of Emperor Liu Bei. Black paint depicts a fierce and bold character. This color is exemplified by Bao Gong, also called Bao Zheng, who was a fearless though fair judge during the Song Dynasty.

Color Meanings
Many colors are used in any given Chinese mask, but the dominant colors impart specific characteristics.
Red used on masks indicates a positive character. Red can also mean prosperity, loyalty, courage and heroism. Red shows intelligence and bravery.
Purple is sometimes used as a substitute for red. In its own right, purple can represent justice and sophistication.
Black means that the character is neutral. Black also indicates impartiality and integrity.
Blue faces are also an indication of neutrality. In addition, blue can show stubbornness, astuteness and fierceness.
Green shows that the character is violent, impulsive and lacks restraint.
Yellow tells the audience that the character is cruel. Yellow can also mean evil, hypocritical, ambitious or sly.
White faces indicate that the character is evil and hypocritical.
Gold and silver show the audience that the character is a god or a demon. The character also may be a ghost or a spirit. Gold and silver symbolize mystery.

Moodboard

Makeup plan

1. Clean the face first to make it all clean and ready to apply makeup. 
2. Apply clown white to the full face and next using a foundation brush and a clean sponge to get rid of any lines in the makeup. 
3. Set this with a white powder to make it look flawless.
4. Use bright pink eyeshadow and apply to the eyelids and around the eyes. use a powder brush to blend the eyeshadow down to give an ombre effect to the face. 
5. Use Black grease paint or face paint to paint the eyebrows on in the shape that was fashionable in this time period. 
6. Next, use eyeliner to create thick cat eye effect around the eye. 
7. Apply a layer of white eyeliner on the waterline of the eye to make the eye stand out more. 
8. Add red lipstick tot he lips making the cupids bow very prominent. 
9. Lastly, do the hair by using traditional hairstyle in a bun as reference. Add cherry blossoms in hair to make the colour n the face stand out. 

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