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This information was automatically generated from data provided by MOA: University of British Columbia. It has been standardized to aid in finding and grouping information within the RRN. Accuracy and meaning should be verified from the Data Source tab.

Description

Three dimensional brass coloured figure of older man in sitting position holding a long staff in one hand. Figure has a high forhead and a hat on his head.

History Of Use

Amulets of this type used to be sewed to special hats worn by baby boys and small male children. These hats often were given to the babies by their maternal grandmothers. They were worn by the boys on special occasions such as festivals. The amulets had many forms: deities, animals, birds, fish, and Chinese characters, normally with auspicious meanings. They had generally gone out of use by the time of collection (1981) and were sold as antiques.

Iconographic Meaning

The amulets were both auspicious and protective. This amulet represents Shou Hsing Gong, an auspicious figure symbolizing longevity.

Narrative

This amulet was purchased as an antique in a shop in Vancouver’s Chinatown.

Item History

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