Zodiac animals have been popular in China since the Northern and Southern Dynasties (420-589). This Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) painting depicts six of the 12 Chinese constellation gods – all men – in long robes with wide sleeves. They are personifications of six zodiac animals: the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon and snake, which are also depicted in the painting.
This painting is on silk and mounted on yellow fabric. It is a treasure from the permanent collection of the Shanxi Museum.
Intangible Cultural Heritage
Foreign vloggers experience Jin Opera in Shanxi
Intangible Cultural Heritage
Fire Dragon Dance brings fiery night spectacle to Datong, Shanxi