The Taoist Queen Mother of the West with a 3 Phoenix Headdress (16804BCK)

Description

This lovely carving is likely the Queen Mother of the West (Xiwangmu) and may be a puppet head or an attachment to a larger figure. Xiwangmu is the most important female deity in the Taoist pantheon generally identified by a single phoenix in her headdress. The unique headdress here has three phoenixes instead of her iconic single phoenix. The phoenix has many symbolic meanings and signifies power, prosperity, high rank and good fortune and conveys auspicious energy. Chinese legend states a phoenix descends from the heavens when a compassionate ruler is born or at the start of a new age of peace and harmony. Three phoenixes was traditional Han head ware during the Qing Dynasty. Known as a phoenix crown, coronet or hat (fengguan), it was worn for official occasions and ceremonies by the Empress, Emperor’s concubines, noblewomen and affluent brides as part of wedding apparel. Given this, it may also have been used for any of these powerful women. The calm demeanor, slightly smiling lips and downward half-closed eyes of this head emit a sense peace and bliss and the long earlobes indicate wisdom. Xiwangmu was the first Chinese deity to be represented in Chinese art, the keeper of the Tao, the grantor of prosperity and the goddess of righteousness who determined the length of devotees’ lives. The small carved area on the rear implies it may have been consecrated by a Taoist priest which is very unusual for puppets, so this is another indication that the carving might have been attached a large carved image. In very good condition, it has expected cracks and paint and lacquer losses from age and use. The hole in the front of the headdress might have held a small phoenix head. Mounted on a contemporary frosted acrylic stand that works with any decor, it is part of the VA Collection of Deities-and-Legends.