Accession Number
2015/2.166

Title
Heavenly Officials with Symbols for Success in Examinations, Happiness, and Good Fortune

Artist(s)
Chinese

Artist Nationality
Chinese (culture or style)

Object Creation Date
19th-20th century

Medium & Support
woodblock print on paper

Dimensions
19 in x 11 1/2 in (48.26 cm x 29.21 cm)

Credit Line
Gift of Sharlynn and Andrew Circo, in memory of Sotokichi Katsuizumi

Subject matter
The main figure dressed, possibly a god or scholarly official, is dressed in an elaborate robe and black headress. His robe features a crane in the center, which symbolizes longevity and peace, and he is holding a dish filled with gourds. The gourd is a plant that is often used for medicine. It contains many seeds and is associated with "10,000 children," so it is a symbol for a large family with many children. The gourd is also popular as a charm to ward off evil spirits and diseases. The words in staff translates to "generations to generations." This image represents the prosperity of a family, and to wish for generations of children. 

Physical Description
Image depicts a figure in an elaborate and brightly-colored robe holding a dish in one hand and facing left. The dish is filled with gourds. Behind him is another smaller figure in a blue robe holding an ornamented staff featuring Chinese characters. 

Primary Object Classification
Print

Primary Object Type
color print

Collection Area
Asian

Rights
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Keywords
boys
children (people by age group)
gourd
human figures (visual works)