The Immortal Cao Guojiu holding a pair of beaters
Place of OriginChina
Dateapprox. 1900-1940
MaterialsSteatite (soapstone)
DimensionsH. 8 7/8 in x W. 3 in x D. 2 in, H. 22.5 cm x W. 7.6 cm x D. 5.1 cm
Credit LineThe Avery Brundage Collection
Object numberB62J52
DepartmentChinese Art
ClassificationsJade And Stones
On View
Not on viewOne of the Eight Immortals, Cao Guojiu first lived in the Song dynasty and was the brother of an empress-hence the literal meaning of his name, "Uncle of the Nation". Here Cao wears the clothing of an official. The soapstone carving shows him keeping time with a set of wooden beaters, which symbolically identifies him as the patron saint of actors.
HIDDEN MEANING: May the immortal Cao Guojiu grant you longevity!
1900-1950
approx. 1900-1940
1644-1911
1800s
approx. 1900-1940
approx. 1800-1900