Chinese opera performers, late Qing Dynasty (1644–1912)

Feature Points

• HISTORIC PHOTO REPRODUCTION: You’ll love this high quality historic reproduction of a late Qing dynasty (1644–1912) photo. Our choice of museum quality prints are archival grade, which means it will look great and last without fading for over 100 years. Our print to order photos are made in the USA and each print is inspected for quality. This historic photo is a perfect addition to your themed decor. Vintage photos look great in the home, study or office. They make a perfect gift as well.
• MUSEUM QUALITY: This high quality photo print will be a great addition to your vintage-themed wall. Don't waste money on cheap-looking, thin paper photos. We use high-end printing equipment and offer you a choice of professional quality photo paper and ink. 
• A LOOK BACK AT HISTORY: This is an impressive, historic reproduction of a photograph from the late Qing dynasty (1644–1912) . A true piece of history. See our product description section for more fascinating information about this historic photo and its significance.
• ON DEMAND FRAMING : We offer several framing options and styles that will fit your needs.
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Additional information

This striking 19th-century photograph features two Chinese opera performers dressed in elaborate Qing Dynasty theatrical costumes. The intricate embroidery, ornate headdresses, and dramatic makeup suggest that they were part of a prestigious Chinese opera troupe, likely performing in Peking opera (Jingju) or Cantonese opera, which were highly popular during the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912).

The seated performer on the left wears a highly decorative phoenix crown-style headdress, often associated with noble female roles (dan) in traditional opera. Her richly embroidered robe, adorned with intricate patterns, showcases symbolic motifs of power, femininity, and grace, reflecting her character's status within the performance. The standing performer on the right wears a distinctive platform shoe style, characteristic of female opera roles, and holds a folded handkerchief or script, a common prop used to convey emotion in classical Chinese opera performances.

The backdrop, props, and formal posing suggest this photograph was taken in a professional studio, possibly to promote the performers or commemorate a significant production. Chinese opera was not just an art form but a deeply rooted cultural tradition, blending music, acrobatics, and storytelling, with costumes playing a crucial role in defining each character’s identity.

This historically significant image is an exquisite representation of China’s rich operatic heritage, making it an ideal reproduction for theater enthusiasts, historians, and collectors of Chinese cultural artifacts. It offers a rare and captivating look into the world of classical Chinese opera performers during the Qing Dynasty.