In the traditional culture of China, the word "cobbler" usually refers to craftsmen who make leather products, such as shoemakers and leather bag masters. But in some areas, especially in Sichuan and Chongqing, "cobbler" has another meaning, that is, shadow play performers.
Shadow play, also known as "shadow play" or "light shadow play", is an ancient folk drama form. During the performance, artists use the silhouette of people made of animal skin or cardboard, and through the illumination of lights, these silhouettes present dynamic images on a white curtain. At the same time, artists will sing stories with local popular tunes, accompanied by percussion instruments and strings, so that the whole performance is full of local flavor.
Some of these shadow puppeteers specialize in making shadow puppets. They are called cobblers. These shoemakers usually work as performers. They are not only skilled, but also creative. They can make all kinds of silhouette of characters according to different plays and plots, making the whole performance more vivid and realistic.
Therefore, the "two stooges" in the proverb "three stooges" actually refers to the shadow play performers. This proverb does not simply describe three ordinary cobblers, but praises those shadow play performers. Although they are not the best, they can produce wisdom and strength beyond ordinary people through cooperation.
The origin of the word cobbler:
In ancient times, leather was an important material and was widely used to make shoes, clothes, bags and other daily necessities. Therefore, those craftsmen who specialize in leather making are called "cobblers". As a profession, cobbler has a long history in the history of China. As early as ancient times, shoemaker has become an independent industry. They are not only responsible for making all kinds of leather products, but also for the repair and maintenance of leather products.
Because of the particularity of leather materials and the complexity of manufacturing technology, shoemakers need to have certain professional knowledge and skills. They usually learn skills through mentoring, and after a long period of practice and tempering, they can become skilled cobblers.
In ancient society, the social status of shoemakers was not high, but they made important contributions to society with their skills and wisdom. The leather products they make are not only beautiful and practical, but also durable and deeply loved by people. At the same time, cobblers are also good at innovating and improving production technology, and constantly promoting the development of leather industry.
In addition to making leather products, cobblers also had close ties with shadow play in ancient times. Shadow play is an ancient form of folk drama, which needs to be performed by silhouette of characters made of animal skin or cardboard. Therefore, the artists who make these shadow plays are also called "cobblers". They are not only responsible for making shadow play, but also for performing, bringing wonderful visual and auditory enjoyment to the audience.