Bowl with God of Longevity (Shoulao) and Eight Daoist Immortals
Ming dynasty (1368–1644), Wanli reign mark and period (1572–1620)
Medium
Porcelain painted in underglaze blue and overglaze polychrome enamels
Dimensions
9 × 18.2 cm (3 1/2 × 7 1/8 in.); Diam.: 18.1 cm (7 1/8 in.)
Classification
bowl
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
180200
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
The lively figures encircling the exterior of the bowl represent the Eight Daoist Immortals, a group of legendary and semi-historical characters, gathered in attendance around the God of Longevity. Elevated upon a floating seat, the God of Longevity is distinguished by his domed cranium and the “ruyi” scepter in his hand. The eight immortals, each identifiable by their unique physical features, companions, or attributes, symbolize immortality, longevity and happiness across various conditions of...
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...