Intimate Charm

Author: Tang Dewei
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-04-01
Features: Chinese auspicious art is a vivid cultural phenomenon of the Chinese nation, seeking to ward off evil and invite blessings. From daily necessities such as food, clothing, shelter, and transportation, to life events like weddings, funerals, and household items, as well as rituals, prayers, agricultural activities, and festivals, all bear the traces of auspicious culture. In the themes of folk New Year paintings, the "Door Gods" have the earliest origins. In ancient times, when science was not yet advanced, people could not correctly understand many phenomena of nature. They believed that events like harvests, disasters, and fortune or misfortune were all governed by gods, demons, and spirits. Therefore, posting "Door Gods" on doors during the New Year was done to ward off disasters and evil, in hopes of ensuring a peaceful and prosperous household in the coming year. "Door Gods" became an important category of New Year paintings. The images of folk "Door Gods" are diverse. The earliest images are the gods "Shen Cha" and "Yu Lü" mentioned in Wang Chong's Lunheng, who were said to bind harmful ghosts and feed them to tigers on the "Mount Dusu" in the "Great Sea." During the Tang Dynasty, the image of Zhong Kui, who was specifically known for capturing evil ghosts, also emerged. Later generations' "Door Gods" mainly included warrior figures such as Yu Chi Gong and Qin Shubao, which are widely recognized. In Buddhist temple halls, pairs of Jatukas or heavenly kings are often used as "Door Gods." Additionally, animals like tigers and lions are also frequently depicted as "Door Gods." This set of postcards features a collection of "Door Gods" New Year paintings, showcasing a glimpse of the charm of Chinese auspicious art to a broad audience.