Operatic Figures in Jiangnan Woodcarving Art of the Qing Dynasty: A Case Study of Dongyang "Knife-Horse" Role

"Knife-Horse"-- martial role are a decorative carving theme commonly found in Dongyang operatic woodcarving. They are frequently applied to Qinfang beams in traditional architecture, and can also occasionally be seen in components like Queti brackets, Timu blocks, Taohuan panels, as well as various types of furniture. The subject matter of these carvings is often drawn from classic operatic works such as Romance of Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Generals of the Yang Family, and The Romance of the Sui and Tang Dynasties. In terms of craftsmanship, multiple carving techniques are typically employed, including high relief, bas-relief, and semi-round carving. Through exquisite technique, these works vividly depict characters' expressions, movements, and dramatic scenes.