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Wenchang, Stellar God of Literature

16th century
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 219
Wenchang is one of a host of personified or embodied stars found in Chinese culture. Associated with literature and, by extension, scholarship and knowledge, Wenchang is part of a constellation of six stars near the Big Dipper.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 明中期 象牙雕文昌坐像
  • Title: Wenchang, Stellar God of Literature
  • Period: Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
  • Date: 16th century
  • Culture: China
  • Medium: Ivory
  • Dimensions: H. 5 13/16 in. (14.8 cm); W. 2 5/8 in. (6.7 cm)
  • Classification: Ivories
  • Credit Line: Alfred W. Hoyt Collection, Bequest of Rosina H. Hoppin, 1965
  • Object Number: 65.86.125
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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