A large antique Chinese marionette male doll. Circa 1920s. The head of this puppet is made og hand carved soft wood; the hands are also made of wood. The hands can form a closed fist or an open palm by the joint at the level of the fingers. The headdress of this puppet is made of cardboard, leather, glass beads, silk and metallic ornaments. The puppet wears an embroidered silk costume. These puppets were used in funeral ceremonies. They played the role of guardians of the deceased in the afterlife. Color meaning in costumes. Red: symbol of dignity and Joy. Black: reserved for the highest officials; symbolizes austerity. Yellow: symbol of the imperial family. White: reserved for mourning. Pink: joy, cheerfulness. Green: attributed to concubines and maids. Blue: symbol of honesty and simplicity. Presented in a glass box. Antique and Vintage Asian and Oriental Ceremonial Puppets and Dolls For Collectors.

Dimensions: Box 36 x 12 x 12 in. All measurements are approximate.