Research Paper : A Study of Facial Make-up in Peking Opera -The Function of Make-Up Color-

Ahn, Hyun Soon

Journal of the Korean Society of Cosmetology 2008;14(1):98-105.
Published online March 31, 2008.

중국경극 瞼譜(검보)의 분장에 관한 소고 -검보 색채의 상징성을 중심으로-

안현순

Research Paper : A Study of Facial Make-up in Peking Opera -The Function of Make-Up Color-

Hyun Soon Ahn

Abstract

Peking Opera actors and actresses adopt unique make-up schemes, of which the make-up for jing role(painted face) is the most intricate and representative. Each jing actor or actress will paint their face with oil and brushes according to certain designs. It is one of the basic skills that needs to be mastered by a jing performer. Various jing roles have different make-up schemes, with designs dictated by rules of cultural tradition. The function of make-up is to express different traits, qualities and social status. Variety in character is achieved mainly through the use of different colors and designs. Certain colors symbolize set character traits. Red usually means loyalty, black is for integrity; white represents a conspiratorial character, and yellow a bold man. Blue and green indicate cruelty, and gold and silver are for ghosts and immortals. Peking Opera, by absorbing make-up from different local operas, gradually developed its own special make-up regimen.

Key Words: Peking Opera, Make-Up Color, Jing Role, Painted Face, Character Traits