The Three Abundant Blessings
Wang Yingxiang (Wang Ying-hsiang)
Description
Wang Yingxiang 王應祥
China, active late 18th to early 19th century
The Three Abundant Blessings
Qing dynasty (1644–1912)
1818
Hanging scroll, ink and color on silk
Gift of Mrs. Charles L. Jamison, 1965/1.181
This monumental scroll depicts the three abundant blessings enjoyed
by General Guo Ziyi 郭子儀 (697–781), a renowned figure in Chinese
history. The artist’s skillful depiction of General Guo’s opulent
residence, complete with lavish amenities, exemplifies happiness, the
first blessing. The second blessing, longevity, is represented by the
depiction of Guo and his wife in their old age. To the left and above
them are young women, likely their daughters and daughters-in-
law, who embody the Confucian ideal of devoted wives and mothers
bearing many sons. The third blessing of many male offspring is
indicated by Guo's many sons and grandsons portrayed throughout
the painting.
A relatively obscure professional painter from Yangzhou in Jiangsu
province, Wang Yingxiang served as the artist-in-residence at the home
of Bao Zhidao 鮑志道, a wealthy salt merchant.
(Chinese Gallery Rotation, Summer 2025)
Subject Matter:
Wang Yingxiang was a little-known professional painter from Yangzhou. He served as the artist-in-residence at the home of a wealthy salt merchant. This gigantic scroll depicts the three abundant blessings enjoyed by General Guo Ziyi (697–781), one of the most famous generals in Chinese history. The vast setting and the many amenities of a comfortable life represented in the painting exemplify happiness; longevity is represented by the aged depiction of Guo and his wife; while the blessing of many male offspring is indicated by Guo’s many sons and grandsons who appear throughout the painting.
Physical Description:
Throngs of people appear active in this landscape. Some gather in the house, while others play in the garden. This scene is set among rocks, trees, and mountains.
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