Chinese Lion's Head

The Lion Head is a very complex piece of sculpture, consisting of a roundish head, orb-like cheeks, eyes and eye lashes, moveable ears, whiskers, a horn, a moveable mouth and flapping eyelids. All the moveable parts have to be manipulated from inside the Lion Head. The frame is constructed in bamboo. Kite paper is then used to mould the first few layers. Following this a layer of gauze is laid to reinforce the structure before further paper is added. The Lion Head is painted with a white base. Water colour is used next and following this waterproof varnish is used. Once the head is complete accessories are added. Silver studs, black nylon eyelashes, whiskers made of sheep wool and black nylon, eyeballs made out of wooden knobs, light bulbs to serve as 'eyes'. Green flag-cloth is used for eyelids, and coloured bristle balls. Variations occur in design. This Lion is green, orange, yellow and red in colour. The hair on its head is shaped as a dragon's hair. The Lion Head has been dotted on forehead, meaning brought to life. The Lion Head, with its body is performed in a lion dance, as part of a festive occasion, especially the Chinese New Year. The Lion Head is known as 'Iam sai' (Hokkein dialect) and recognised as Southern Malaysian by its features.