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Lu Ban, Patron God of Carpenters

Chinese

Artwork Details

Lu Ban, Patron God of Carpenters
20th century
Chinese
woodblock print on paper
18 1/16 in x 15 3/16 in (45.9 cm x 38.5 cm);19 1/8 in x 16 1/8 in (48.6 cm x 41 cm);19 1/8 in x 16 1/8 in (48.6 cm x 41 cm)
Gift of Willard A. and Marybelle B. Hanna
1989/2.148

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Description

Subject Matter:

The central figure is Lu Ban, a master craftsman also known as the father of carpentry in Chinese history. He is known for his inventions in carpentry such as the saw, the cloud ladder, the wooden bird, and many more. He is surrounded by scholars who hold various ancient carpentry tools such as an axe, saw, and spear. The smaller sized figures below him show two men making wooden crafts with the tools invented by Lu Ban. 

Physical Description:

A central figure is surounded by four figures, two on each side. Below the central figure are two smaller sized figures. The central figure has a beard, a crown, and holds his hands together inside the sleeves of his robe. The four figures around him are all holding carpentry tools such as axes and saws. The two smaller sized figures below th central figure are seen conducting carpentry work. 

Usage Rights:

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