Screen

Date1650 - 1750

MediumCard, straw, paper, pigment

DimensionsObject/Work: 395 x 97 x 4 mm

ClassificationsMiscellaneous Equipment

Terms

Object numberC04198

DescriptionTable screen in 8 pieces decorated with figures of mythological Taoist hermits. There are Chinese characters on the reverse in red.

Screens were originally exclusively for the emperor and were placed behind his throne as a symbol of his power. Later they came into more general use by the public. Smaller table screens were eventually produced, these were placed on a small rectangular table and were purely decorative.

The mythical hermits are also known as the 8 immortals. They were a legendary group revered by Taoists who were said to have gained immortality. They are a common symbol in art and popular culture as signs of longevity. Their names are: Immortal Woman He, Royal Uncle Cao, Iron Crutch Li, Lan Caihe, Lu Dongbin, Philosopher Han Xiang, Elder Zhang Guo and Han Zhongli. Several of them seem to have been based on real people, and most were born in the Tang or Song Dynasties.

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