Superstitious beliefs were common in China thousands of years ago, and there were sorcerer's who wore special masks to welcome their god's fortune, to honor the birth of a new child and to help in the grieving process when someone passed away. Ancient cultures within China also believed in evil spirits and they wore special masks that were used to drive away these unwelcome beings. Eventually, masks that were used for exorcism rituals became associated with opera performances and in their worship of military forces.
Chinese masks are usually constructed out of wood, but they also are painted onto a person's face. Actors and entertainers who stage theatrical performances within China typically paint masks onto their faces. This custom is credited to the Song or Yaun dynasties that existed in China during the middle ages. Later, colors were used to identify the personalities of the characters that performed onstage. Red was used for bravery, and yellow was used to denote evil and cruelty. Theatrical masks in China were usually handmade by craftsman who specialized in this trade.
Dixi masks are worn by a group of Chinese people who live in Anshun City in Guizhou. When the Anshun people tell stories about past events related to their culture, they wear masks in order to symbolize the arrival of their gods. According to the people of Anshun City, the gods are present within the actors as the story unfolds. Many traditional Chinese masks are found inside of museums, and some masks are valued by collectors. Different materials, such as metal or plastic, are used to make masks and they also come in a variety of styles.
Chinese masks are worn during the Chinese New Year, which is one of China's most celebrated holidays. Months before this holiday, many mask craftsmen are kept busy creating traditional and modern masks in order to meet the expected demand. Masks are constructed to be jovial and to reflect fun and excitement and others are made to honor rituals associated with this holiday, such as the lion or dragon dance. Chinese people also display masks around their homes during the Chinese New Year.