Shouxing, China, early 20th century.

Shouxing, China, early 20th century.
Carved coral and wooden base.
Measurements: 11 x 5 x 6 cm; 15 cm (total height).
Depicted with his characteristic features—a broad forehead, long beard, and serene expression—Shouxing, the god of longevity, is one of the most recognizable figures in the Chinese iconographic repertoire. His image, associated with long life, health, and prosperity, was particularly prized as an auspicious object and as a gift for celebrations and anniversaries. Shouxing is usually depicted carrying the gnarled staff and the peach of immortality, attributes that directly allude to his status as the deity of longevity. His iconography forms part of the well-known group of the Three Star Gods (Sanxing), along with Fuxing, associated with happiness and prosperity, and Luxing, associated with rank and success.

The choice of coral as the material lends the sculpture a particular charm. Its organic nature, intense coloration, and the material’s very structure provided the sculptor with a surface that was especially prized for carving small figures. The choice of red coral for carving this figure is no coincidence. An exotic and highly valuable material, coral reached China through extensive trade networks that connected the country with various regions of Asia and, especially, with the Mediterranean. During the Qing Dynasty, its use became particularly significant in court circles and among the elites; furthermore, its extraordinary popularity can also be explained by the symbolic value of the color red, traditionally associated with vitality, prosperity, and good fortune. In the early 20th century, this tradition of coral carving continued in full force, especially during the Republican era. Workshops in major centers such as Guangzhou, Beijing, and Shanghai developed specialized production aimed at both the domestic market and export.