The Eight Immortals

The Eight Immortals

Culture

The Eight Immortals are a group of legendary in Chinese mythology. Each Immortal's power can be transferred to a power tool that can give life or destroy evil. Together, these eight tools are called "Covert Eight Immortals". They are thought to be actual historical individuals, born in Tang Dynasty or Song Dynasty, and elevated to immortal status through personal piety, trickery or luck. They represent an anarchic element in the Chinese pantheon, bringing health, prosperity and good fortune to individuals regardless of age, gender or social status.

Depiction and Art

The tradition of depicting humans who have become immortals is an ancient practice in Chinese art, and when religious Taoism gained popularity, it quickly picked up this tradition with its own immortals. They were frequent adornments on celadon vases. They were also common in sculptures owned by the nobility. Their most common appearance, however, was in paintings^. Many silk paintings, wall murals, and wood block prints remain of the eight immortals. They were often depicted either together in one group, or alone to give more homage to that specific immortal. 

The picture above is our presentation of The Eight Immortals on natural turquoise. You can see all the details of these eight characters, vivid and their lovely smile. From left to right is:

ZHANG-GUOLAO - Stubborn Old Mule

CAO-GUOJIU - Royal Outcast

HE-XIANGU - Self-raising Flower

HAN-XIANGZI - The Flying Philosopher

LAN-CAIHE - Drunk and Disorientated

LI-TIEGUAI - Body Snatcher

LU-DONGBIN - Tactical Withdrawal

ZHONG-LIQUAN - Explosive Revelations

Turqsky.com (c) 2009

See Terms & Conditions for our disclaimers.