Chinese Folk Paper Puppet (Male, Black Face, Black Robes)

Collections
1618795
Title
Chinese Folk Paper Puppet (Male, Black Face, Black Robes)
Year/Period
1950s
Region
Acquired in Singapore
Object Type
Dimension
Gross measurement: 25.0 x 10.0 cm,
Object size: 20.0 x 10.5 x 4.7 cm
Accession No.
2025-00412

This 1950s hand-crafted Chinese folk paper puppet, titled “Chinese Folk Paper Puppet (Male, Black Face, Black Robes),” depicts a commanding, authoritative character. The entirely black face, with a subtle blush, suggests boldness, loyalty, or fierceness, representing a protector or enigmatic figure. His black hat, with gold and red ornaments and a white pom-pom, along with his black robe and boots, indicate high status, perhaps as a general or spiritual guardian. The embroidered white flowers add balance, symbolizing nobility. This puppet embodies the ‘seng’ archetype, representing loyalty and strength, bringing gravity and resilience to performances through his protective role.