Title
Chinese woodblock print depicting a Military Door God
Year/Period
Mid 1940s-mid 1960s
Region
Suzhou, China
Material
Technique
Dimension
Image size: 90.5 x 48.6 cm,
Image size: H98.0 x W56.0 cm (Mount)
Image size: H98.0 x W56.0 cm (Mount)
Accession No.
2010-00955
Collection of
This print depicts a Military Door God carrying serrated banners. The banners are props used by army generals in Chinese operas to give the impression of power. Prints of Military Door Gods are usually modelled after famous heroes, but some may just depict a general-like figure, similar to those seen in Chinese operas. The door gods usually come in pairs and are placed facing each other to prevent spirits from passing through the doors. This print was produced in Taohuawu, a village in Suzhou province in China. Taohuawu’s prints are known for their vibrancy. However, the colours of this piece have faded.
