Antique Pi Ying Chinese Shadow Puppets (Set of 4)

We believe this set of 4 puppets dates back to the Burr sister’s 1920s and 1930s world tours which stopped in China. They are in good vintage condition but would best be bought by someone planning to mount and frame them, rather than use them as puppets.
 
One comes with its original price tag, possibly 7.24 but in what currency we are not sure. The third is displayed in parts, the clothing and leg sections not currently attached to the body (we are leaving that to a buyer to do for fun). The last one has some unfinished spots or areas where paper may have been used to blot the dye before it dried, getting stuck to the puppet. 
 
Chinese shadow puppetry, or Pi Ying Xi, is an ancient form of storytelling and entertainment. The puppets, or Pi Ying, are made of animal hide (often donkey skin due to its thinness) or paper, which is carved, dyed and lacquered. They are somewhat translucent. They usually have 8-12 sections for different parts of the body, sticks or rods attached for use in puppet shows where they are held between a screen or canvas and an oil lamp in the old days or other lighting today. The shows tell tales of war, romance, religion, and folk stories. A small orchestra assists with music accompanying the shows.
 
Chinese shadow puppetry has its roots 2000 years ago. According to some, they came into being when an army was under siege and the general had likenesses made to place on top of the walls to give the impression of an imposing army within the walls. It is now recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage. 
 
Our are approximately 11” (28cm) high, including detailed hair ornaments and other very embellishments. They are currently taped with safe artist tape to pieces of lightweight cardboard as shown in photos. The tape had not damaged them when we removed it for photos. We replaced it immediately afterwards.
 
H 11” each to be mailed on Letter Size White Cardboard sheets.
 
Disclaimer: We have tried to make sure colors shown in photos are representative of the real colors of each item. We have tried to identify all imperfections in descriptions, but we may have missed some. If you are unhappy with your purchase, let us know.