Tortoise

One of the “Four Auspicious” beasts in Chinese culture, the tortoise (gui 龟), or turtle, is a sign of longevity due to its long life span, as well as strength and endurance. The tortoise is associated with the north and winter. As its arch-like shell is compared to heaven and its flat underside to earth, the tortoise is said to conceal the secrets of the universe. In the Shang Dynasty (c. 1600-1046BCE), its shell underside (plastron) was used for divination (predicting the future). Any image or design relating to a tortoise/turtle is a wish for a long life. The tortoise is associated with Zhenwu who stands on the back of a tortoise entwined with a snake.

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  • Sale! Antique Wood Zhenwu the Taoist “Perfected Warrior,” China #19416XLKE

    Antique Wood Zhenwu the Taoist “Perfected Warrior,” China #19416XLKE

    Original price was: $1,250.00.Current price is: $625.00.
    H: 15.25″  W: 6.75″  D: 6.75″ |CALL 213-568-3030 OR EMAIL [email protected] FOR SHIPPING

    Zhenwu (Perfected Warrior) is one of the most important and powerful Taoist deities, god of one of the 4 cardinal directions (the north) revered for his potent magical powers to suppress demonic forces. This provincial image for personal devotion and reflects his classic iconography: seated on a throne, bare feet resting on a snake and a tortoise, a celestial scarf and maille armor. Intricately carved he has a powerful presence.

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  • Antique Wood Zhenwu, The Taoist "Perfected Warrior" China (19066B) ME) $575

    Antique Wood Zhenwu, The Taoist “Perfected Warrior” China (19066B) ME) $575

    $575.00

    Zhenwu (aka Xuanwu, Wuandi and Zhenwudadi) is one of the most revered Chinese Taoist figures, venerated for his ability to heal as well as to protect his country and the emperor. There are various depictions of his attire, but here he wears a plain black robe with an official’s belt which he holds in his…

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  • Sale! Antique Zhenwu, The Taoist "Perfected Warrior," China #16097BME

    Antique Zhenwu, The Taoist “Perfected Warrior,” China #16097BME

    Original price was: $595.00.Current price is: $395.00.
    H: 12″    W:5.6 ” D:4″    |  FREE SHIPPING WITHIN CONTINENTAL U.S.!

    Zhenwu, the True Warrior, Perfected Warrior or Northern Emperor was one of the most popular TaoistDeities in the Ming and Qing dynasties known as protector of the state and the imperial family. His feet here rest on a pedestal over a turtle with a lifted head and a snake curled around his shell. Among the many interpretations this  represent beings over whom he presided including both celestial officers under his command, [and] former demons that were conquered by him. This is a fascinating carving symbolizes trusted strength. and power.

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  • Antique/Vintage Taoist Priest with Elixir of Life, China (7506PHE) $215

    Antique/Vintage Taoist Priest with Elixir of Life, China (7506PHE) $215

    $215.00

    Images of Taoist priests were often placed on a home altar along with other spiritual images, ancestral tablets and  ancestor figures to honor the departed family members, practice familial piety and ancestor-worship, and request good fortune to the family dwelling and its household. Priests were called daoshi (道士 “master of the Tao”) identified by his…

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