Theatre mask of Zho Chang, the attendant of the god of war Guan Yu.   Peking Opera face masks were traditionally painted directly onto the faces of the performers. Made of clay, they have now become an art form in their own right. There are many different types of face masks for the different roles in the drama. Depending on the pattern and colours, experienced viewers can distinguish whether the character is a hero or a villain; whether he is intelligent or foolish; whether he is loved by others or whether they are disgusted by him.