In Peking opera, performers use colorful masks to represent the personalities and moods of the characters they're portraying. While they create their masks using makeup, you can take replicas home with these papier mache versions. Wear them or use them as decor.

The various colors of the masks are full of meaning.

Red

Considered good luck in Chinese culture, red is also a good omen in Peking opera. It symbolizes loyalty, devotion, courage, and uprightness.

Black

Makeup with an emphasis on black indicates a character who’s rough around the edges but also bold, selfless, and fair.

Yellow

This bright hue signifies someone who’s fierce and ambitious yet cool-headed at the same time.

Purple

See a purple face and you’ll see someone who’s honorable, sophisticated, and calm. Makeup that’s reddish purple suggests a character who’s just and noble.

Blue

Feeling blue in the face? If you’re in a Peking opera, you’re tough, reliable, and astute.

White

In Western culture the color white often embodies purity and innocence, but in Chinese culture, it’s a different story. A character with white-dominated makeup is thought to be sinister, treacherous, crafty, and even a powerful villain.

Green

A verdant visage implies someone who’s impulsive, violent, stubborn, and an all around loose cannon.

Silver and gold

These luminous shades often specify supernatural beings, such as gods, ghosts, and demons.

Learn even more about Peking opera.