Peking Opera evolved ( 发展 ) from Kunqu Opera. With a history of over 200 years, Peking Opera is the quintessence ( 精粹 ) of Chinese culture, and the main form of traditional opera in China. Peking Opera costumes are brightly colored and very beautiful. Most of them display traditional Chinese patterns embroidered ( 刺绣 ) by hand. Peking Opera is also well known for its facial makeup, which reflects distinctive personalities and images. In over 200 years, Peking Opera has developed over a thousand plays of high artistic value, as well as sets of musical modes and stylized performance movements. Following outstanding Peking Opera performers including Mei Lanfang, Cheng Yanqiu, Ma Lianliang, Zhou Xinfang and Du Jinfang, the emergence of many young artistes has continued to breathe new life into Peking Opera.