Pair of Imperial Guardian lion shadow puppets. One lion-dog (part a) is shown in a full body profile, with one front paw raised on a ball. A large fan-like tail extends up behind it. The other (part b) is facing forward with only its front paws showing side by side, next to a large ball, and a portion of the fan-like tail is visible behind the large ears. Both have green shaggy coats, wide open red mouths, and are shown with reddish-orange ribbons decorations around them.

• Specific Techniques

  The cowhide is scraped extremely thin, which together with their jointed limbs, makes these puppets highly flexible when they perform high kicks, jumps, and flips. When performing, their distinctive designs and vibrant colours are visible on the glowing screen, enhancing the magical effects of the characters in motion.

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• Type of Item puppet
• Culture Chinese
• Material cow skin, watercolour paint, lacquer
• Measurements height 8.0 cm, width 16.5 cm, depth 0.1 cm (part a) height 14.0 cm, width 11.0 cm, depth 0.1 cm (part b)

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• Creator Lu Family
• Previous Owner Lu Family
• Received from Lu Family, Museum of Anthropology Exhibitions Budget

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• Made in Tangshan

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• Creation Date during 2018
• Ownership Date before December 21, 2018
• Acquisition Date on December 21, 2018

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• Condition excellent
• Accession Number 3338/00