Artwork Page for The Two Immortals of Harmony and Unity

Details / Information for The Two Immortals of Harmony and Unity

The Two Immortals of Harmony and Unity

和合二仙

1736–95

China, Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Qianlong reign

(1736–95)
Medium
Hanging scroll; polychrome woodblock print; ink and color on paper
Measurements
Print only: 120.7 x 54.1 cm (47 1/2 x 21 5/16 in.); Overall: 177.9 x 61.2 cm (70 1/16 x 24 1/8 in.); with knobs: 177.9 x 66.3 cm (70 1/16 x 26 1/8 in.)
Credit Line
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 2025.31
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
Not on view
Print
?

Did You Know?

In the 1600s, printing flourished in such Jiangnan cities as Nanjing, Suzhou, Hangzhou, and Huizhou, evolving from privately enjoyed illustrated books printed in color to more commercialized single-sheet color prints that were hung on walls and became part of the rich urban visual culture.

Description

Woodblock printing in color reached a height in China in the 1600s to 1700s. The prints were executed by means of sets of separate blocks, each carved to print a different color.
A hanging scroll in vibrant colors depicts the Immortals of Harmony and Unity as two plump, smiling men. One immortal holds a dark ribbed vessel and a scepter, while the other holds a pink lotus blossom. They wear green robes patterned with golden circles and lined in red. At their feet lie a swastika, a large coin, and interlocking squares. Vertical Chinese calligraphy is arranged on the right.

The Two Immortals of Harmony and Unity

1736–95

China, Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Qianlong reign (1736–95)

See Also

Visually Similar by AI

Contact Us

The information about this object, including provenance, may not be currently accurate. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please fill out the appropriate request form linked below:

Update or Correct Artwork Information

Imagery or Rights for Non-Open-Access Artworks

Report a Website Issue

Further Questions About This Artwork