One of the most iconic group portraits in the history of Chinese Peking Opera — a photograph capturing the Four Great Dan Masters​ (Si Da Ming Dan四大名旦), the four most celebrated male performers of female roles (dan旦) in the golden age of Chinese theater. Four legendary artists from left: Cheng Yanqiu程砚秋 (1904–1958), Shang Xiaoyun尚小云 (1900–1976),Mei Lanfang 梅兰芳(1894–1961),and Xun Huisheng荀慧生 (1900–1968). Each brought a distinct artistic temperament to the stage — Mei with his refined elegance, Cheng with his melancholic lyricism, Shang with her bold and spirited presence, and Xun with his lively, playful charm. Taken in September, 1949, Beijing, by K.T. Thompson.