Sheet 5 of figures for Chinese shadow puppets 1845 - 1855

Juan Llorens's "Sheet 5 of figures for Chinese shadow puppets" (1845-1855) is a detailed silhouette design for shadow puppets. This sheet depicts a procession of figures, carriages, and horses, all rendered in solid black against a blank background. The artist likely intended this design to be used as a template for cutting shadow puppets, and the sheet offers an intriguing glimpse into the artistry of shadow puppetry in China. The intricate details of the figures, the complex design of the carriages, and the dynamic poses of the horses highlight the level of skill required to create these intricate puppets. These silhouette designs, intended for shadow puppetry, are a rare and fascinating example of the intersection of art, performance, and cultural tradition.