Guandi and Two Fortune Gods
Original Language Title上關下財 清末民初
CultureChinese
Datelate 19th-early 20th century
MediumWoodblock print; ink and color on paper
DimensionsOverall: 17 × 11 7/8 inches (43.18 × 30.16 cm)
Credit LineBequest of Laurence Sickman
Object numberF88-44/339
On View
Not on viewCollections
Gallery LabelThere are many gods of fortune, some of which were historical or mythical figures. For example, the print on the left shows the legendary warrior, Guandi. This red-faced hero came to be god of wealth because of his association with merchants. Below him are two gods, each of whom holds a gold bar or a ruyi scepter, symbols of wealth and recognition. The print on the right shows a fortune god and his wife with the same attributes. Despite their differences, all of these deities can grant the wish for increasing wealth, as signified in the treasure urn in the lower section of each print.
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