Fukurokuju
On View In:
Gallery 224
Artist:   Korin Ogata  
Title:   Fukurokuju  
Date:   c. 1700  
Medium:   Ink on paper  
Dimensions:   8 3/8 x 10 1/8 in. (21.27 x 25.72 cm)  
Credit Line:   Bequest of Richard P. Gale  
Location:   Gallery 224  

Fukurokuju is one of the Seven Gods of Good Fortune (Shichi fukujin), a group of deities adopted into Japanese mythology from China as early as the 15th century. Fukurokuju's distinguishing feature is an elongated cranium, probably suggesting the vast wisdom he accumulated over his long life. Because Fukurokuju was emblematic of longevity, this charming painting of him would have been appropriate to display at tea gatherings conducted to mark the beginning of a new year. In this way, the host could bestow wishes for good health and long life on his guests.

Artist/Creator(s)     
Name:   Ogata, Korin  
Role:   Painter  
Nationality:   Japanese  
Life Dates:   1658 - 1716  
 

Object Description  
  
Inscriptions:   Signature signed: Hôkyô Kôrin, with Kakihan  
Classification:   Paintings  
Creation Place:   Asia, Japan, , ,  
Accession #:   74.1.21  
Owner:   The Minneapolis Institute of Arts