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Hanging Cash: God of Longevity

Chinese

Artwork Details

Hanging Cash: God of Longevity
20th century
Chinese
woodblock print on paper
21 1/4 in x 11 5/8 in (54 cm x 29.5 cm);22 3/8 in x 12 13/16 in (56.8 cm x 32.5 cm);21 1/4 in x 11 5/8 in (54 cm x 29.5 cm)
Gift of Willard A. and Marybelle B. Hanna
1989/2.133

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Description

Subject Matter:

The figure is Shou Xing, a star god. Shou Xing is the star god of longevity, and also known as "The Old Deity of the South Pole." It is said that his mother saw the star of the South Pole when he was conceived. He is holding a peach in one hand and a stick of peach wood in the other, as peaches are also symbols of longevity in Chinese culture. The clouds symbolize the celestial realm, since they were created between heaven and earth. 

Physical Description:

A man with a white beard and a large forehead is dressed in a yellow, red, and green robe, and is holding a peach in one hand and a staff in the other. He appears to be floating in the clouds. This image seems to be on top of a red paper cutout. 

Usage Rights:

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