清 琥珀東方朔偷桃擺件|Dongfang Shuo stealing peaches of longevity

Unknown

Date unknown · Amber · Asian Art

Dongfang Shuo was an official at the court of Han Emperor Wu (r. 141–87 B.C.) known for his quick wit and humorous quips. He has become a legendary figure in Chinese art: one finds his image in ceramics, hardstone carvings, lacquer, painting, and textiles. Here, he is depicted as a long-bearded old man running away from the garden of the Queen Mother of the West, a Chinese goddess. He carries on his shoulders the peaches he has stolen, which are said to have the magic power to extend life.

Artist

Unknown

Date

Date unknown

Medium

Amber

Culture

China

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Bequest of Edmund C. Converse, 1921