Album of Daoist and Buddhist Themes: Procession of Daoist Deities: Leaf 4

Series Title: 佛道主題畫冊

Album of Daoist and Buddhist Themes: Procession of Daoist Deities: Leaf 4

1200s

China, Southern Song dynasty

(1127-1279)

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Medium

album, ink on paper

Measurements

Painting: 34.3 x 38.5 cm (13 1/2 x 15 3/16 in.); Overall: 39 x 41.4 cm (15 3/8 x 16 5/16 in.)

Credit Line

John L. Severance Fund in honor of Dr. Ju-hsi Chou and Gift of various donors to the department of Asian Art (by exchange) 2004.1.4

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Location

Not on view

Did You Know?

A demonic figure on the far left of the entourage is carrying a hunting dog on his shoulder.

Description

Leaf 4 depicts one of the sanguan 三官大帝 (Three Officials of Heaven, Earth, and Water) in the Daoist pantheon. These "officials" work as intermediaries between human beings and the bureaucracy of the netherworld. This deity, riding on a lively steed, most likely represents the "Official of Earth" 地官. Leading the way, his entourage includes a host of protective guards who carry his sword and chair, hoist his parasol and flags, or simply hold their own weapons. These figures all walk on clouds, moving along with a strong wind that causes the parasol and flags to flutter, creating a sense of overall motion.