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Door Gods Yu Lei and Shen Tu – Catchers of Evil Spirits and Ghosts (Diptych)

Chinese

Artwork Details

Door Gods Yu Lei and Shen Tu – Catchers of Evil Spirits and Ghosts (Diptych)
19th-20th century
Chinese
woodblock print on paper
22 ½ in x 13 ¾ in (57.15 cm x 34.92 cm)
Gift of Sharlynn and Andrew Circo, in memory of Sotokichi Katsuizumi
2015/2.160.1

Description

Subject Matter:

This figure is one of the door gods. The Chinese door gods are worshipped as spiritual guardians of the entrance. They are known for their trustworthiness, strength, and loyalty, and are suposed to keep evil spirits from entering. Door gods normally face each other in pairs because it is considered bad luck to place them back-to-back. The "double happiness" character in the background symbolizes good luck, especially for a marriage.

Physical Description:

The left panel of a diptych featuring a figure dressed in an elaborate robe and headress. He has red skin, a large black beard, and an ornamented staff. He is facing right. Background is blue, red, and white silk pattern with a red "double happiness" character. 

Usage Rights:

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