Figure of Lao-tse

231
Figure of Lao-tse
China; Qing dynasty; 18th-19th c.

The old sage, founder of Taoism, is depicted with his attributes: a parrot in one hand and a cat in the other. Beside him there is a bottle of ambrosia and two peaches, symbols of happiness and longevity. From the time of the Tang dynasty lapis lazuli was imported from the regions of Afghanistan through the Central Asian kingdom of Khotan. The Chinese appreciated lapis lazuli for its delicate colours. It was described as a "shiny, glittering precious stone" and was traditionally connected with the imaginary world of the Chinese immortals.