Accession Number
PG2020.2.25A&B

Title
Eight Immortals on a Boat (One of a Pair)

Artist(s)

Object Creation Date
Qing dynasty (19th century)

Medium & Support
porcelain with glaze

Dimensions
7 1/2 x 2 1/2 in. (19.05 x 6.35 cm)

Credit Line
Promised gift of William C. Weese, M.D., LSA ‘65

Subject matter
This is a pair of ceramic rafts that dates back to the 19th century. Each has eight immortals riding a boat through the gates of heaven. These boats measure 7 1/2 x 2 1/2 in. (19.05 x 6.35 cm), about the length of a standard No.2 pencil. Eight immortals are worshipped throughout the Chinese history. They represent prosperity, good luck, and longevity. The gods are He Xiangu (the only woman, who improves mental and physical health), Cao Guojiu (patron of actors), Li Teigual (patron of the sick and needy), Lan Caihe (ambiguous gender, patron of florists, symbolizes a carefree life), Lu Dongbin (leader of 8 immortals, a scholar and poet), Han Xianzi (patron of musicians), Zhang Guolao (associated with old age), and Zhongli Quan (who can resurrect the dead). Historically, purple and blue represent divinity and immortality. Yellow is associated with nobility and the Emperor. The boats rest on wooden stands. Practically, they are there to support the boat, but they also add an aesthetic value. The original owner may have been a scholar, who placed them on his desk. Miniature objects such as these were popular decorations among scholars.

Physical Description
Eight immortals riding boat through gates of heaven with aubergine, blue and yellow glaze and custom cloth stand.

Primary Object Classification
Ceramic

Collection Area
Asian

Rights
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Keywords
blue colors
boats
eggplant (color)
yellow colors