Master Level Chinese Opera Aspen Wood Mask This culturally rich yet very charming mask is a real charm for any home decor / mask lover / collector - it is a genuine Ground / Nuo Opera Mask, hand carved and painted by our award winning Craftsmaster Mr. Yang, who family has been in this tradition for several generations. Ground / Nuo Opera is considered the living fossil of Chinese Opera Art. It originated some 600 years ago, and still be found in some remote villages in the Southwest China. The focal point of this art form is the mask. It requires exceptional craftsmanship, artistic talent, and years of experience to carve an affectionate and vivid mask, in which to reflect the role"s character and its represented spirit. Role: Jiao Zan - General Role Description: Jiao Zan, a straightforward and humourous man, was one of the four original mountain kings in the region. His specialty weapon was spear, and later joined the House of Yang as General. He was a good partner with General Meng Liang, and both of them were well-known valors. The Story: Mu Guiying Takes Command, is a story about a great Female Commander Mu Guiying of Song Dynasty who lead Song army to defend their homeland against militant nomad Liao from the North of China. Our Award Winning Craft Master Our Craft Master Mr. Yang Ding Kuen is in his late 50"s. He started his carving career since the age of 24, where his father propagated this very traditional mask carving technique to him. His works has been used in many Chinese musical plays, while earning numerous awards including the Best Prize for Guizhou Province Arts and Crafts Fair in 2006. He is also the committee member of Guizhou Arts and Crafts Association, and has various appearances in TV art programs, including those hosted by China Central Television.