Statue Of Shou XIng, China, Late 19th Century, Qing Dynasty Period (1644-1912).

Statue of Shou Xing, China This statue represents Shou Xing, Taoist god of longevity, standing, dressed in a long pleated hooded cloak. His face is turned to the left, and he smooths the end of his long beard with a gesture marked by wisdom. He leans on a staff decorated with a crozier in the shape of a dragon's head, a symbol of celestial power and protection. At his feet rest two young deer, associated with prosperity and longevity. Crafted with great finesse, this piece highlights the expressiveness of Shou Xing's face and the fluidity of the draperies, reflecting refined artistic know-how. The posture of the god and the presence of the dragon reinforce his status as an immortal sage, guarantor of a long and harmonious life. The iconography of Shou Xing links him to Taoist traditions and popular Chinese beliefs. He is part of the celestial triad Fu Lu Shou, where he embodies longevity. The dragon, coiled on its staff, is an imperial and mystical attribute, while the roe deer recall its association with immortality and prosperity, their name (lù, 鹿) being homophonous with the word lù (禄) meaning "fortune". An object loaded with symbolism, this statue illustrates the aspiration to a serene and prosperous existence, according to the principles of Taoism and ancestral Chinese culture. Carved wood, old honey patina and marks of time. China, late 19th century, Qing dynasty period (1644-1912). Provenance: Château de Bares, Asques, Gironde.