The Colors of Peking Opera
Peking Opera, which originated in the late 18th century, is a synthesis of music, dance, art, and acrobatics. It is the most influential and representative of all opera styles in China.
One of the most unique aspects of this style of opera is its facial makeup. The colors, in particular, of a character’s facial makeup are especially important as they are used to reflect that character’s personality, a certain quality about them, or sometimes even their fate within the story.
Red represents positive characteristics such as bravery, loyalty, or courage in a character.
Purple face paint is used for characters that are solemn, do not seek connections with those in power, and have a strong sense of justice.
Black, in most cases, is used for characters that are not necessarily good or bad, but are solemn and of few words. Sometimes this color is also used to symbolize other traits like bravery, strength, and uprightness.
Blue faces often indicate that a character is principled, but sinister and fearless.
Characters with green faces are usually brave, irritable, and in most cases lack self-restraint.
Yellow face paint is used for characters that are considered valiant, but hot-tempered.
White is used for characters that are treacherous, sinister, or crafty.
Finally, gold and silver faces symbolize mysteriousness and indicate that a character is an immortal, monster, god, etc.
