Tray with Daoist figures

16th century

Not on view

The eight figures assembled on the riverbank represent the Eight Immortals, a group of Daoist deities who originated from the legends of the Tang dynasty (618–907). They can each be identified by their personal attributes, including the flute, staff, sword, flower, and gourd. Here, they await the arrival of Shoulao, God of Longevity, who is flying above the waves on the back of a crane. Daoism gained increasing popularity in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, and so did its imagery. This exquisitely decorated tray is a remarkable example.

Artwork Details

明黑漆嵌螺鈿八仙賀壽圖托盤
Title: Tray with Daoist figures
Period: Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
Date: 16th century
Culture: China
Medium: Black lacquer with mother-of-pearl inlay; basketry sides
Dimensions: H. 1 3/4 in. (4.4 cm); W. 18 3/8 (46.7 cm); D. 11 5/8 (29.5)
Classification: Lacquer
Credit Line: Purchase, Barbara and William Karatz Gift, 2006
Object Number: 2006.238
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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