Artwork Page for Zhang Xian Shoots the Heavenly Dog

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Zhang Xian Shoots the Heavenly Dog

張仙射天狗

1821–50

China, Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Daoguang reign

(1821–50)
Medium
Polychrome woodblock print; ink and color on paper
Measurements
108.5 x 57.9 cm (42 11/16 x 22 13/16 in.)
Credit Line
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 2025.44
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
Not on view
Print
?

Did You Know?

Woodblock printing in color reached a height in China in the 1600s to 1700s. The prints were executed by means of sets of separate blocks, each carved to print a different color.

Description

In the 1600s, printing flourished in such Jiangnan cities as Nanjing, Suzhou, Hangzhou, and Huizhou, evolving from privately enjoyed illustrated books printed in color to more commercialized single-sheet color prints that were hung on walls and became part of the rich urban visual culture.
A vertical woodblock print on aged paper depicts three figures with light skin tones. Centrally, Zhang Xian in a blue and grey robe draws a bow toward the Heavenly Dog in the upper right clouds. Below him, two children flank the scene: one in a blue robe dances with a flower, while the other in a green robe holds a spear with a red banner. Fine lines and muted colors define the composition.

Zhang Xian Shoots the Heavenly Dog

1821–50

China, Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Daoguang reign (1821–50)

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