Antique/Vintage Earth God Tudi Gong with Wife, China (16342LOE) $785

Description

These carvings of the Taoist-Deities Tudi Gong and his wife Tudi Po are from rural Southern China where they were frequently depicted together as house-gods on a home altar or local temple for farmers to pray to for abundant harvests and success in selling their products. Although Tudi Gong is a low ranking deity, he is considered an Earth God who held and still has an important role in the daily lives of villagers who referred to both affectionately as “Grandpa” and “Grand Ma.” They are syncretic and tutelary deities as Protectors of the Land and family dwellings. Considered benevolent and very responsive, farmers, business people, shopkeepers, and homemakers sought their assistance for personal and community activities and in times of crisis such as drought or famine. When China was more agricultural, villagers often visited local temples and shrines to make fruit offerings. Both images are portrayed as lower Mandarin Chinese officials in bright colors seated on backless chairs with feet on multicolored pedestals. He wears officials-attire of a Mandarin-official with a mandarin square with a bird, a simple officials hat and a decorated black belt while she is garbed in a vibrant elaborate robe with intricate designs, scalloped floral collar, and red and gold belt and sash with her hat consisting of a bird with outstretched wings, probably a phoenix. Their faces are deeply carved and highlighted with painted lips and “wrinkles” to show their age and wisdom and Tudi Gong has his traditional long flowing beard. They appear to be a very happy couple exuding joy, cheer and benevolence. Each of these carving pair is in very good condition with the exception of a crack in front of Tudi Gong and signs of wear consistent with age and use. Both images with painted backs were meant to be seen in the round and were consecrated as indicated by their back cavity. Although not originally created as a gift, this pair would make great wedding, housewarming or other event gifts as their function is to offer aid, support and advice and help in times of need.

Click here for the Blog Consecrating Wooden Images to Imbue Them with A Life Force and here for the Blog Tudi Gong: the Taoist and Popular Religion Earth God