Chang Fei is one of Chinese opera's most popular characters. He is a bold and reckless figure, well known for impulsiveness and rash action. The audience loves his clumsy exuberance and martial prowess.
In the opera Lu Hua Landing, Chang Fei disguises himself as a fisherman to spring a surprise attack on one of Liu Pei's enemies. He is pictured here in his disguise, which consists of a circular grass hat and a loose-fitting, plain robe.
Chang Fei's nickname was "the Flying Fist". Perhaps this accounts for his butterfly eyebrows. Chang Fei's "leopard" eyes are designed to lend him the appearance of great ferocity, and are the origin of his other nickname, "Leopard Head". In addition to his martial prowess, Chang Fei is also known for his sense of humor and charm.
