[Dragon head dance mask, miniature].
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Title |
[Dragon head dance mask, miniature]. |
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Description |
A colorful miniature model of a Chinese dragon head dance mask. The appearance of the dragon head is both fearsome and bold but it has a benevolent disposition, and it was an emblem to represent imperial authority. "Dragons have always been a symbol of prosperity and fortune in China. Over 2,000 years, the dragon has turned from a symbol of a deity, the emperor and imperial power into a symbol of the Chinese nation. The Dragon Dance has been elevated from asking the gods for rain to expressing people's courage, pride and wisdom. The traditional dragon mask features the dragon with its jaw wide open and covered with feathers and fur. For larger ceremonial and parade style dragons, the head can weigh as much as 32 pounds. It is usually decorated in gold and silver colors, depicting prosperity. Green color depicts a better harvest, red color symbolizes excitement, and yellow depicts a solemn empire. The dragon dance is often performed during Chinese New Year. The dragons are believed to possess qualities that include great power, dignity, fertility, wisdom and auspiciousness. Dragons are believed to bring good luck to people, therefore the longer the dragon in the dance, the more luck it will bring to the community. A dance, accomplished by 6 - 8 people, is done by manipulating poles which are situated at appropriate places along the length of the dragon. The players in the dragon dance take coordinated and rhythmic steps and perform to the music of loud gongs and drums. The atmosphere is reinforced by the applause of the audience and the glimmering light. " |
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Subject |
Dragons in art--Models--Specimens.; Masks--Models--China--Specimens.; R 795 |
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Date |
[between 2000 and 2016?] |
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Replicas and Objects of the Giertz Education Center, Krannert Art Museum
