This print depicts a pair of Military Door Gods dressed like generals. The banners that they carry on their backs are props used by army generals in Chinese operas to give the impression of power. The Chinese character for ‘bliss’ (福, fu) is printed on each banner, suggesting they are ‘benefactors’ (福将, fujiang). Prints of Military Door Gods are usually modelled after famous heroes, but some may just depict a general-like figure, such as those seen in Chinese operas. The prints face each other to prevent spirits from passing through the doors. The prints were produced in Foshan, which is in the Guangdong province in China. Foshan’s prints are usually not very elaborate. However, the colours applied are very striking and the backgrounds are usually bright orange.
