RRN Basic

A simpler, search-only version of the Reciprocal Research Network. This site is optimized for mobile devices like your smartphone, but works well with older computers and browsers too.

To search, simply enter your query into the box at the top of the screen.

Visit the full RRN for access to more powerful search and collaborative research tools.

Shadow Puppet

MOA: University of British Columbia

3338/8 a-c

Ju Bajie (Pigsy) shadow puppet with separate head (part b) and accessory rake (part c). Pigsy is depicted with a human body, and pig head. His head is more translucent and shiny than the body. He has a pig snout and large pig ears, large almond-shaped eyes and black eyebrows. He wears a black hat with a green band that is tied with red string, knotted under his chin. He wears an open black tunic with green edging. His hip, knee and elbow joints have wheel-like designs. On his feet he wears black shoes tied with red string. Limbs jointed with fibre at the shoulders, elbows and hips. Operated by three rods. The rake is black with a curved neck, row of triangular teeth, and is operated by one rod.

  • Iconographic Meaning

    The puppet is made in a classic north-eastern design (Luanzhou), from Luanzhouzhen in Heibei Province, one of the historically renowned regions of shadow puppetry in China.

  • Specific Techniques

    The leather 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.

  • History Of Use

    This piyingxi (shadow puppet) character, Pigsy, is from the classic Chinese narrative, “Journey to the West,” sometimes known as “Monkey King,” which is full of action, acrobatics, and martial arts. Puppets 3338/8-20 represent the four main characters (Pigsy, Monkey King, Sandman, Buddhist Monk), their horse, and the Eight Immortals, who are associated with the stylized clouds (3338/21-22), which indicate their identities as immortal beings.

  • Type of Item puppet
  • Culture Chinese
  • Material fibre, bamboo grass, steel metal, plastic, cow skin, watercolour paint, lacquer
  • Measurements height 60.0 cm, width 9.0 cm, depth 1.0 cm (overall)
  • Creator Lu Family
  • Previous Owner Lu Family
  • Received from Lu Family, Museum of Anthropology Exhibitions Budget
  • Made in Tangshan
  • Creation Date during 2018
  • Ownership Date before December 21, 2018
  • Acquisition Date on December 21, 2018
  • Condition excellent
  • Accession Number 3338/0008 a-c

Keyboard Shortcuts