Over 200 shadow play and puppetry artworks are on display in an exhibition titled “Reflective Glow – Art Exhibition of Shadow Play and Puppetry of Shaanxi and Sichuan Provinces” until February 6 at Tap Seac Gallery in Praça do Tap Seac, the Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC) said in a recent statement.
Shadow play and puppetry in the two provinces have a long history, the statement noted. The exhibition aims to strengthen Macau residents’ understanding of Chinese folk culture by showcasing folk and traditional crafts along with the two provinces’ “cultural appeal”.
The statement added that Chinese shadow play and puppetry are known for their “superb craftsmanship and artistry”, and both are “precious items” of national intangible cultural heritage. The exhibits feature figures depicting characters of classic Chinese operas such as Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Journey to the West, and The Legend of Yue Fei.
According to the statement, the shadow play artworks are “very lifelike” in spite of their flat surface, while life-sized puppets in colourful clothes and accessories are also displayed. Moreover, items such as crafting tools, props and performing instruments are also exhibited.
The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, including public holidays. Admission is free. More information can be found by visiting www.icm.gov.mo or calling the bureau at 8988 4000 during office hours.
Photos taken yesterday by Rui Pastorin
