Set of Four Immortals Screen Paintings

Since the 12th century people in China have used folding screens and doors to partition and decorate their homes—the vivid scenes backing the screens added life and color to a room. These four 19th-century paintings are delicately brushed of gouache and ink on fabric and were originally part of a set of eight backing a wooden screen in northern China. The four figures depicted are four of the mythical Eight Immortals of Taoism. Said to have attained immortality through their studies of the natural world, each of the Eight Immortals represents a different condition in life and together they impart a blessing of prosperity and longevity. Depicted here with their characteristic attire and accessories, the figures are painted with animated postures and colorful detail. The outlining brushwork imitates a wooden panel, inset with "carvings" of lotus flowers and dragons.

The four paintings are floated on linen and framed behind glass.