Liu Hai, Daoist Immortal
On loan to The Met
This work of art is currently on loan to the museum.These bronze sculptures (with SL.17.2019.1.2) capture the playful appeal of the Daoist immortals Liu Hai and Li Tieguai. Li supports himself on his famous iron crutch, with an enormous gourd full of magical elixirs slung across his shoulder, while his friend Liu Hai plays with his companion, a massive toad. These lighthearted sculptures would have been well-suited to the reception hall of a cultured family, where their fine craftsmanship and playful spirit would have added a touch of learned whimsy
Artwork Details
- 明晚期 劉海與李鐵拐銅造像
- Title: Liu Hai, Daoist Immortal
- Period: Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
- Date: 16th–17th century
- Culture: China
- Medium: Bronze
- Dimensions: H. w/o stand: 17 5/8 in. (44.8 cm); W. 5 1/2 in. (14 cm); D. 6 in. (15.2 cm)
- Classification: Sculpture
- Credit Line: Promised Gift of Julia and John Curtis, in celebration of the Museum’s 150th Anniversary
- Object Number: L.2020.10.3
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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