Chinese Double Sided Carved Opera Troupe Prop Sign Calligraphy Panels 45"

Description

Pair of vintage mid to early 20th century hardwood opera troupe prop signage hanging panels, carved on both sides with gilded calligraphy; gold edges / frame.

Translation:
Left panel: ⼤仁， 道袍法降 (Daren, the Daoist robe and divine descent)
Right panel: ⼤仁，神袍旗傘 (Daren, divine robe, banners and parasols)

Left panel (reverse side): ⼤仁，时式椅墊 (Daren, contemporarystyle seat cushion)
Right panel (reverse side): ⼤仁，装嚴桌� (Daren, stage table drapery and embroidered table skirting)

Summary:
At first glance the panels read as though these were inventory labels from a furniture vendor selling tables and cushions. But the mention of Daoist and divine robes didn’t quite fit. Eventually, we realized these were likely signboards from an opera troupe, used to label their props. The robes, tables, and cushions must have been part of their stage equipment and were used in performances. And the terminology suggested a professional troupe operating during the late Qing Dynasty to the early Republic of China—roughly from the late 19th to early 20th century.

Therefore ,⼤仁 means Great Benevolence, likely was the name of the opera troupe. 法降 (divine descent) in the 1st left panel most likely means “divine descent/ritual props”

Condition

Fair, scrapes/scuffs/gentle wear, heavy warping to one.

Dimensions

16.25" x 1.5" x 44.5" (Width x Depth x Height)